The Best Pets for Toddlers

When it comes to choosing a pet while there is a little one in the home, there are several options that you can consider. If you have a toddler and are thinking about getting a furry friend to be by your family's side, this article will provide some ideas.

Hamsters or Other Small Rodents

Toddlers are at a stage where they are exploring and learning, which could cause them to mishandle an animal or accidentally hurt it. If the animal you want to choose will belong to your toddler, you want to get a small animal that will live in a cage for most of the time. Small animals like hamsters may be ideal. They are small and docile, making them good pets for children. They live in cages and therefore will not be running around the home, which would make it more difficult for your child to accidentally hurt them. Be careful, as some small rodents can bite. Some little animals will be more tamed than others, depending on their upbringing and genetics. Keep in mind that there are maintenance responsibilities and costs that come with buying a rodent, so even if the little pet belongs to your toddler, you will still need to look after it, including considering pet insurance for pre-existing conditions.

Fish

Fish are another animal that can be owned with minimal supervision. A fish of course always lives in its tank, so there is no risk of injury, as long as the tank is not easily knocked over or opened. Similar to small animals, fish need food and occasional cleaning of their tank. Otherwise, however, they can be low-maintenance pets. They can make a great first pet for your toddler and brighten up any room.

A Dog or a Cat

Dogs and cats are great furry companions. You should only get a dog or a cat if you want a furry companion that will be with your family for years. Of course, these animals require more maintenance than small rodents and fish. If you are getting a dog, you will need to take him for frequent walks, and you will also need to feed him regular meals. Your dog will need water and regular cleaning of his bowls. Its fur may also need to be brushed, depending on the type of dog you want to get. Do not forget that you will need to spend a significant time training your dog, too. Although you will get many affectionate moments with your pet, you will have to put in the effort to take care of it properly.

Similarly, a cat will need to be trained to use its litter, which will need to be regularly cleaned out, as well as its bowl. It will require regular feeding and water. Depending on the breed, it may need regular grooming. There is a variety of other things you may want to train your cat to do as well, how to use a scratching post instead of a couch, or to stay home unless it's being taken out on a walk.

Apart from the above, there will be additional costs that you may not immediately realise. With both of these animals, you will need to pay the vet bills, and you may wish to consider arranging pet insurance with a  provider such as Petsure. Owning a life-long animal like a cat or a dog will of course come with many costs and may also restrict you from moving or going on vacation. If you can, however, commit to this, a dog and a cat can be great pet choices.