The 5 Basic Needs of Every Small Animal – the Beginner’s Checklist

“Cage, food, done?” – Not quite. Small animals have clear needs that should be considered from day one. This checklist shows step by step what really counts – it is easy for parents to understand and can be easily implemented with children.

1) Food & Water – Daily, Fresh, Species-Appropriate

Small animals need hay or basic food, fresh water and suitable fresh food.

Hay forms the basis for many species, while vegetables and herbs provide vitamins. The water should be provided in a stable bowl or a drip-free bottle and must be cleaned daily. 👉 Tip: Set fixed times, for example water in the morning and fresh food in the evening. This way, children quickly realize: care means sticking with it.

2) Space & Movement – more than “a Cage”

A species-appropriate enclosure is not a piece of furniture, but a habitat that offers space to run, jump and dig. The basic rule is: the bigger, the better. Structure the area with levels, tunnels and paths. Practice: Observe together where the animal likes to be. This gives rise to ideas on how to expand the habitat in a meaningful way, instead of just “decorating” it.

3) Protection & Retreat – Rest is Mandatory

Small animals are often crepuscular or nocturnal. They need places of retreat such as houses or tubes and a quiet, draft-free place with constant temperature conditions. The best way to explain it to children is: “When the animal sleeps or hides, it feels safe. We leave it alone so that it builds trust in us.”

4) Health & Hygiene – Clean, Soft, Low-Dust

The bedding should be soft, absorbent and low in dust. Wet spots should be removed daily, and a basic cleaning is required regularly. Bowls, water bottle and accessories should be cleaned with warm water. Family routine: “Quick check” in the evening: check water level. Food leftovers? Damp corners? This takes two minutes and prevents stress and odors.

5) Social Contact & Occupation – Together & Meaningful

Since many small mammals are group animals, keeping them alone is often not species-appropriate. In addition, all animals need occupation. This includes gnawing branches, digging boxes and gnawing material. A suitable running wheel is important for hamsters. Participate instead of touching: children can observe the animals, document their observations (“Today the rabbit…”), feed them and give them fresh water. This creates a bond without pressure.

• “A small cage is enough.” → Wrong. Movement is a basic need.
• “Bedding is just decoration.” → Mistake. It is a hygiene and comfort factor.
• “Toys are a luxury.” → No. Occupation prevents boredom and misbehavior.

How it Works in Everyday Life

Start with the basics: food and water, suitable bedding, a place to retreat and enough space. Observe the animal together with your children and then optimize the husbandry: more structure, more peace, more variety. This way, the whole family understands why something is necessary, and not just that it is necessary.

The most Important Thing at a Glance

• Fresh daily: water, hay/basic food, suitable fresh food.
• Species-appropriate space: large, structured, safe.
• Retreat & rest: house, privacy screen, quiet location.
• Clean & soft: low-dust bedding, short cleaning routines.
• Together instead of alone: social partner (depending on the species) and meaningful occupation.