Choosing a rabbit

Rabbits can live indoors or outdoors but it's essential that their living environment is as big as possible, safe from predators and away from draughts, direct sunlight and noise. A traditional hutch is no longer seen as a humane option; rabbits must be able to stand up on their back legs without their ears touching the ceiling, take 3 consecutive hops and lie down fully stretched. If they're not already neutered, you'll need to arrange this with your vet. Rabbits also need regular vaccinations - again, something you should speak to your vet about.

As for general maintenance, their toilet area needs cleaning daily and their living area should be cleaned at least once a week. They should be allowed into their run frequently for exercise. You'll need to ensure they are fed correctly, as many problems in rabbits stem from being fed the wrong type of food. Aside from a spacious cage and some buddies, rabbits need bedding, a big outdoor run, chew toys, grooming accessories and something to eat and drink from.

Domestic rabbits usually live for about eight to twelve years if properly cared for.

Choosing a guinea pig

There are lots of different guinea pig breeds and these little rodents come in all sorts of colours and coat lengths. They're intelligent, inquisitive and active but can be quite shy and a little nervous. Guinea pigs can live indoors or outdoors but once the temperature drops below fifteen degrees, they should be moved indoors. If they do live outside, their living area should be heated and away from direct sunlight, wind or any extremes of temperature. They also need to have an outdoor run, and it's crucial for them to have constant access to a safe hiding place.

Male guinea pigs should be neutered unless you intend to breed them. Guinea pigs need grooming regularly, their teeth and nails checking once a week and you should look out daily for signs of illness or injury when you handle them. You need to clean them out regularly, too. Given that they can be nervy little things, try and handle your guinea pig every day from the start so they get used to you and start to enjoy your company. Guinea pigs need large living quarters, an outdoor exercise area, lots of bedding, grooming accessories, tunnels and something to eat and drink from.

Well-cared-for guinea pigs usually live between five and six years.

Choosing a hamster

Hamsters are very active and independent little creatures that love to burrow and hide. They're nocturnal so sleep through the day and wake just before dusk. Hamsters favour warm temperatures, as cold temperatures could send them into hibernation. Therefore they need to live indoors in a quiet, dimly lit and draught-free area of your home. They need lots of space to run about, burrow, climb, rest and exercise. Hamsters are small and delicate so need handling with extreme care. You should always supervise young children if they want to hold hamsters, and be aware they may bite if startled or afraid. Hamsters are nocturnal and don't appreciate being woken up during the day.

A large cage aside, hamsters need an exercise wheel, chew toys, tubes, places to hide, as well as something to eat and drink from. They also need lots of bedding to burrow into, and nesting material. You need to keep their cage clean without disturbing them too much and you also need to do daily checks for injuries and illness. A hamster's health can deteriorate rapidly so it's important to look out for signs of ill health.

Generally hamsters live up to two years but they could live longer.

Our articles are not a replacement for face-to-face vet advice. It’s important to consult with your vet on a regular basis to raise any pet concerns that you may have.