Dogs and cats not your thing? Looking for something or someone new to keep you occupied?
Unique pets are all the rage – a quick scroll on social media will show you that ducks, chickens, and rabbits are in! Not to mention the age old quirky pet: ferrets! If you’re wondering about making these animals a part of your family, this one’s for you!
Ducks
I have become fascinated with adorable duck families on social media – from a flower-filled cottage to a water-feature backyard, ducks are growing in popularity. What’s the deal with all these ducks?
Ducks can be great all-natural pest control! They can also provide their natural fertilizer (if you catch my drift), making them ideal for rich gardens or homsteads. They lay beautiful eggs, too. Their eggs are different from chicken’s, boading richer flavor and increased nutrition.
Ducks are an all-around good time, providing unique entertainment and companionship. They also can tolerate a wide temperature range. It is important that these lovelies have a companion, though. They get lonely!
Chickens
Just like ducks, chickens may not be for everyone. These animals can be messy and restricted in some counties. Similar to ducks, they can be relatively low maintenance. These social creatures prefer community too, ideally in groups of 3 or more.
Chickens can be a little noisier – both these animals have some sass! These creatures can be escape artists, so a strong, tall fence is necessary. They likely will need less space than ducks, while ducks also require access to a water source.
Rabbits
Let’s move on to some indoor friendly pets. Rabbits can be a great companion! These furry little friends require daily play and care to keep them active and stimulated. If you are serious about becoming a bunny parent, I recommend checking out How To Care for a Pet Rabbit: Bunny Care Sheet.
These animals also desire camaraderie, so it is a good idea to get them in pairs or groups. In the wild, they live in colonies. Their bunny buddy can help keep them entertained, calm, and safe. How precious!
Sometimes these animals don’t like to be held, so if you are looking for a cuddler, this pet might not be for you. They like to have their own freedom. They love a challenge, so toys, obstacles, and blankets can help keep them entertained.
Ferrets
Similar to rabbits, ferrets are unique indoor pets. These little guys can be quite entertaining. They are known for their mischievous and playful personalities. If trained properly, they can have a strong bond with their owner, and enjoy playtime and cuddles with people.
These animals require ample attention! They can be a bit destructive if you don’t keep a close eye. They love getting into trouble and exploring new places. While ferrets themselves are quite clean due to self-grooming, their cage needs frequent cleaning. These guys are known for their habitat’s strong scent.
Growing up, I had a neighbor with ferrets. These little guys loved to roam around the house, even playing with their house cats (though I doubt that is recommended). These sassy creatures are known for their nipping tendencies, so they may not be good with young children.I thought they were pretty cool though, and I would spend hours playing games and cuddling with them.
There’s a Pet Out There for (Almost) Anyone!
If dogs and cats aren’t for you, no biggie! We need to think beyond the binary of these two animals – there are so many other creatures out there that can make joyous family members… Don’t hold yourself back from having the kind of pet you want!
