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Ferrets: Ferrets are good pets for kids, but they aren't for everyone. They are a huge responsibility, considering that an hour of playtime daily is necessary for the mental and physical health of a ferret. Ferrets also have a unique odor that is even stronger if the ferret is not descented. If a female ferret is not fixed, she will die; and if a male is not fixed, he will be very aggressive and smell exceptionally strong. Ferrets live for about 8 to 15 years, about the same as a dog or cat. They cost from $100 to $200 each at most pet stores but can be adopted from a shelter. |
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Rodents: Rodents are easy to care for and fun for many children. However, most rodents don't live very long, and nobody likes watching a little kid crying over his dead hamster. In general, most rodents make pretty good pets and require basic food and water, and you may end up with little baby rodents eventually. They cost from $1 to $50 each, depending on species. |
| Cats: Cats have simple food-and-water care, along with cleaning their litter box. Long-haired cats need to be groomed regularly, so may be more difficult to keep. Cats can be adopted from a shelter or bought from a specialized breeder. |
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Dogs: Dogs have care like that of cats, but do not use a litter box and need to be taken outside to do their business. There are hundreds of kinds of dogs, but mixed breeds are the most common. Both cats and dogs need a good veterinarian to stay healthy. A dog can be adopted from a shelter or bought from a specialized breeder. |
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