Rabbits Vs Guinea Pigs: Which is Better For Kids?

Hi Pet Blog Readers,

Hope you had a great weekend.  Let’s get the week started with an article from guest blogger Melanie.  She has a post for us that should help you out if you are trying to decide between getting a rabbit or a guinea pig.  Each of these small pets have their own characteristics and behaviors and their care may suit your personal situation better than the other.  Melanie’s outline of pros and cons should be able to help make your decision a bit easier.  If you have a preference between a rabbit and a guinea pig or if you have a question or comment, please let us know in the comments section below.  Thanks!

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A first pet is a very important right of passage for your child. Not only does it make a very cute contribution to your family, it teaches your kids responsibility and to love and respect the animal kingdom. That said, having a pet isn’t always easy. They take looking after, feeding, exercising and immunising.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet for your child, it’s always good to start with something small and manageable. Two great examples are either guinea pigs or rabbits. Both of these animals are relatively low maintenance and your children should be able to take care of most of the responsibilities involved.

Below you will find the pros and cons for each animal, which should help in deciding which to get.

RABBITS

PROS

• They are small in size and can fit in your children’s hands.
• They are gentle and not intimidating for children.
• They feed on dry food, grass and vegetables which is easy to find.
• They require little or no vaccinations.
• They are independent and do their own thing.
• They can exercise in their cage or indoors.
• They show affection to their owners.
• They can be litter boxed trained.
• They can be left to roam.
• They live 8 – 12 years, slightly longer than guinea pigs.

CONS

• They are stubborn animals and training takes time.
• They can be smelly. Hutches need to be cleaned frequently.
• They chew everything they come into contact with so home roaming can be a problem.
• They are susceptible to exposure and in extreme weather may need to stay inside.
• Finding veterinary help for rabbits can be difficult as it’s uncommon.
• They poop a lot and everywhere.
• They will wee on you if given the chance.
• They are very quick and can be hard to catch when returning them to their cage.
• They are rapid breeders so be careful if you have more than one.

GUINEA PIGS
PROS

• They are small in size and can fit in your children’s hands.
• They do not bite and are even more gentle than rabbits.
• They don’t smell.
• They don’t breed as quickly as rabbits.
• They are independent and do their own thing.
• They can exercise in their cage or indoors.
• They make adorable squeaking noises.
• They are very easy to take care of.
• They live 5 – 8 years, more than smaller rodents.
• They love to be held for hours and are easy to catch.
• They have a great temperament.

CONS

• They can be shy at the beginning and run away from you.
• They require largish cages.
• Cages need to be cleaned frequently.
• They can be noisy so best kept outside.
• They aren’t as simple to feed as rabbits. They need a variety of vegetables, hay, and high quality pellets that you might have to order online.
• They poop and pee without warning.

Author Bio
Melanie is a pet lover and very keen blogger. Over the last few years Melanie has contributed numerous articles on pet care and products.  Melanie is currently working on a new pet blog that should be released soon.