Getting Started: Choosing Between Guinea Pigs, Hamsters and Gerbils

Guinea pigs, hamsters and gerbils are often grouped together as “small pets” but have quite different care needs and temperaments.

• Guinea pigs are social and generally do best in same-sex pairs or groups, not alone.
• Most hamster species are solitary and should usually be housed alone as adults.
• Gerbils are social and active, and appreciate a deep substrate for digging.
• All three need a suitably sized, secure enclosure – check the actual floor space, not just what’s marketed as a “starter kit”.

This is a general starting point, not a complete care guide – always research your specific species in depth before bringing one home.