thank you

[poppie]

Thank you to everyone who answered my question about - which pet should my 4 year old son have - i agree with you all - but i think ill leave the crocodile till hes a bit older - guinea pig has top marks - and can i just ask are gerbils nocturnal.

[dmsjps]

Hello again Poppie, Yes, gerbils are nocturnal by nature, but they are very energetic, sociable little animals and will adapt to your routine - when you give them one to adapt to - quickly and without complaint. Like all rodents though, they can still bite if they're unsure.

 

Me personally, if I was going to go as far as a gerbil/mouse/hamster, I'd rather get a rat. I know the word 'rat' sends people screaming, but pet rats truly are the most friendly, adaptable, faithful and intelligent of all rodents. It may be hard to believe, but you can actually have a relationship with a rat that is on a par with a dog if you're dedicated enough. I haven't tried it, but I've seen some of it and it is impressive.

[smudge]

Our daughter's Gerbil was nocturnal, so I assume they all are!

Our Granddaughter has had her Guinea Pig for a couple of years now & she's a delightful little creature, with a temperament to match.

I'm so glad you & your son are taking an interest in my suggestion, along with others, on your other thread. I'm sure he will be delighted with either. Good luck.

[hugnie21]

Just a point about guinea pigs...

They are much happier, and more entertaining, when you have two. They don't like being alone and will just sit there doing nothing! I've always kept guinea pigs and wouldn't be without them.

Good luck. 

[smudge]

hugnie - I would agree with that. Our Granddaughter originally had two guinea pigs ''Betty & Wilma' from babies. They were really happy & contented together, but alas, Betty died last year. Wilma was really lost at first, but gets lots of extra cuddles & strokes, so she's quite happy again now.

[l_h_kings]

I think a guinea pig is a fantastic pet. I've never had gerbils, but I imagine they are probably too small, quick and delicate for a 4 year old to handle compared with a Guniea pig.

Guniea pigs comunicate with you with squeeks and purrs, they can live indoors or out, they don't smell as much as other pets and can be docile and placid. You're better off with two, but they also multiply pretty quick if you get a Mr and Mrs Guinea.