Keeping a pet is beneficial to both the family and the child, not to mention that it does help build strong bonds.
“Whenever I ask children and parents if their pets are truly part of the family, most of them seem surprised-and almost offended at the question,” cited Gail F. Melson, PhD, professor emeritus of developmental studies at Purdue University in Indiana. Almost all answered, “Of course they are!”
Pet ownership can be a challenging, comforting, and valuable experience for your child. Just ensure that you have acquired a family pet suitable for families with kids.
What is the easiest animal to take care of? Are there low-maintenance pets for kids? We at UKPets, have listed the best pets for kids under 10.
1. Fish
Fish make great starter pets for kids. “They can teach care and responsibility without needing much time and upkeep. The equipment required for a simple tank is also fairly cost-effective and easy to set up,” says veterinarian David Gething.Compared to other furry pets, you don’t have to worry about separation anxiety or destructive behaviours when leaving your fish alone at home.
They do not require grooming and outdoor responsibilities. Moreover, they bring a calming effect to anyone watching them serenely glide through the water.
There are varieties of fish that you can choose for your child. Some are playful and can be trained to perform tricks. The most recommended fish for kids or even first-time owners is the betta fish. They look exquisite in their long flowing fins and are available in varying colours.
When properly cared for, these small pets can live up to two to four years. However, you may want to put each fish in an individual tank, as betta fish can be very territorial.
The following are other fish breeds suitable for kids:
- Angelfish
- Goldfish
- Guppies
- Molly Fish
- Platy Fish
You may also like:
- How to Keep Your Pet Fish Happy and Healthy?
- How to Look After Fish?: Fish Tank Care Tips for Starters
2. Birds
If your child wants a long-term pet that does not demand regular interaction, birds might be a good idea. Birds are known to live a longer life compared to traditional pets like cats and dogs and can even outlive you. They are capable of treating you and your child as one of their “flock.”Hand-raised birds make the best pets with good temperaments. It is important to remember that they are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and diet.
Bird ownership of your children should be supervised. Older children, at least seven years of age, are the ideal time for kids to rear a bird. It does, however, depend on your child’s maturity and the particular breed. The following birds should fit in well with your family:
- African Greys
- Budgie
- Canaries
- Cockatiels
- Lovebirds
- Finches
They have the sweetest personality, especially Cockatiels. They do not require much grooming compared to other furry pets. It only calls for responsibility for an occasional cleaning of their cages. In addition, they are very social and can be extremely vocal and noisy.
3. Dogs
Dogs are the most popular pets in many countries, including the UK, US, France, China, and Japan. It is unsurprising why children are begging for years to have little balls of snuggles.Movies often portray kids having close relationships with dogs. However, a consideration on which dog to get should depend on which dog breeds are compatible with children.
Remember that size matters. Large breeds can be around toddlers but with closer supervision, as their massive size can easily topple small children.
On the other hand, small dogs are wonderful furry pals for young and older kids. However, adults should teach them how to gently handle these canines. Accidentally dropping these types of pooches may easily lead them to sustain injuries.
In addition, keeping dogs as pets can be advantageous for your kid. Here are a few reasons:
- Dogs help kids develop patience, compassion, and empathy. Research in the US. and UK showed a correlation between pet attachment and empathy scores. By definition of empathy, it goes beyond what we can express with words. It involves non-verbal communication through facial expressions, gestures, and body language. Growing up with pets makes kids sensible beings.
- Another set of research was conducted, proving how dogs support emotional well-being. For instance, when a dog leans his head on the child’s lap, he reduces stress.
- Dogs come with responsibility. Young children become reliable when given duties to remember, such as feeding, providing water, and cleaning up after the dog. It largely contributes to the child’s personality development.
4. Cats
Cats work best for busy families. It is one of the reasons why cats are a popular choice for pets along with dogs. They are easy to care for and do not need regular walking as long as they are given ample amounts of indoor exercise.As with dogs, cats offer the same sense of companionship, empathy, and responsibility. Cats make the best small pets for cuddling. There are ways you can let your kid engage with playful cats using:
- Wands or rods
- Ping-pong balls
- Crumpled paper
Cats seek control over their environment. So it is important to provide a “safe place” for your feline to retreat to when the mood sets in.
5. Guinea Pigs or Cavies
Guinea pigs make great pets for kids. They are relatively friendly and entertaining for your child. Here are some takeaway points:
- Guinea pigs have unique traits despite looking the same. Spend time before acquiring one and see if you want an outgoing one or a shy and reserved Cavy.
- These small mammals are unlikely to bite. However, any interaction between Cavies and your children should still be supervised to ensure safety.
- They relish cuddles. They are less nervous when carried compared to rabbits and hamsters.
- Ever heard of “pop corning”? This is a distinctive trait of guinea pigs where they may jump over and over, quickly running forward and backwards or kicking their front and back legs when excited. It is pretty entertaining to watch.
Take note that Cavies do not produce their own source of vitamin C. Therefore, please be responsible for adding it to their diet.
You may also like: 20 Amazing Facts about Guinea Pig
FAQs About Best Pets for Children
1. Are Rabbits Good “Starter” Pets for Kids?
It is a misconception that rabbits are good starter pets for kids. They have fragile bodies that require extra care. Compared to wild rabbits, they are not hardy to the elements; thus, their housing must be properly constructed to protect them from strong winds and rain.
Moreover, the diets of Bunnies must have some variety. Contrary to popular belief, they cannot thrive on carrots alone.
You may also like: 7 Reasons Not to Get a Pet Rabbit
2. Are Fish Good Pets for Children?
Fish are good pets for children. They do not require a big living space unless they are large or kept in big groups. Unlike cats and dogs, they do not require grooming, playtime, or walks.
However, keeping fish as pets has its own challenges, such as providing the right temperature, lighting, and filtration. Thus, adults must guide children when caring for these aquatic animals.
3. What Is the Cleanest Pet to Have?
Cats are one of the cleanest pets to have. Self-grooming is a habit that comes to them naturally. They are also hard-wired to quickly learn litter training. Thus, all that cat owners need to do is provide routine brushing and litter tray cleaning.
4. What Pet Can You Leave for a Week?
Fish are the type of pet you can leave for a week. But necessary preparations should be made ahead of time to ensure that their living environment remains stable whilst you are away.
This usually entails cleaning the tank a week before leaving, then equipping it with an aquarium light timer. Consider hiring a pet sitter to feed your fish and check the tank’s temperature.
Conclusion
Caring for pets teaches children to be empathetic and responsible. They also serve as a healthy social support system.
However, families should not make rushed decisions. Looking after animals takes plenty of time and effort. Unless the adults in the household are proactive in sharing this responsibility, it is a good idea to hold off on providing pets to kids.
