Numerous studies have highlighted the incredible benefits of pet ownership. Interacting with animals has been proven to reduce stress by decreasing cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.
Additionally, spending time with pets can lower blood pressure, alleviate feelings of loneliness, increase a sense of social support, and even elevate your mood.1 However, for first-time owners, taking on the responsibility of a high-maintenance pet can be daunting.
That’s where these 13 easy-to-care-for pets come in. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply looking for a low-key addition to your family, these pets will bring joy without the stress of extensive care routines.
1. Hamsters
Hamsters are adorable, pocket-sized pets that are easy to care for. These furry little creatures are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance companion. Hamsters require a cage with bedding, food, water, and toys to entertain them.
They are independent animals that don’t need much attention, making them ideal for busy individuals.
One important thing to note is that hamsters are nocturnal, so they may be more active at night. They also have a relatively short lifespan of 2-3 years. Despite this, hamsters make great first pets for children, as they teach responsibility without requiring a long-term commitment.
2. Betta Fish
Betta fish, or Siamese fighting fish, are stunning, low-maintenance aquatic pets. These vibrant fish are native to Southeast Asia and come in various colors and patterns.
They are known for their independent nature and can thrive in small spaces, making them perfect for apartment living.
To care for a betta fish, you’ll need a tank with at least one gallon of water, a filter, and a heater to maintain a stable water temperature. Bettas are carnivorous and require a diet of pellets or frozen food. With proper care, betta fish can live up to 3-5 years.
3. Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs are social, gentle, and relatively low-maintenance pets. These adorable rodents are larger than hamsters and require more space, but they are still easy to care for. They need a spacious cage with bedding, hiding spots, and toys. Guinea pigs also require a diet of hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets.
One of the best things about guinea pigs is their social nature. They do well in pairs or small groups and enjoy interacting with their owners.
With proper care, guinea pigs can live up to 5-7 years, making them a longer-term commitment than some other small pets.
4. Leopard Geckos
Leopard geckos are fascinating reptiles that make great pets for first-time owners. These small lizards are native to the deserts of Asia and are known for their distinctive spotted patterns. They are nocturnal and require a terrarium with a heat lamp and hiding spots.
Caring for a leopard gecko is relatively simple. They require a diet of insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and their terrarium needs to be cleaned regularly.
They are solitary animals and do not require a companion. With proper care, they can live up to 15-20 years.
5. Turtles
Turtles are unique, low-maintenance pets that can provide years of enjoyment. Many species of turtles, such as red-eared sliders and box turtles, make great pets.
They require a spacious tank or outdoor enclosure with a basking area, hiding spots, and a water source for swimming.
Turtles are omnivores and require a diet of commercial turtle food, vegetables, and occasional treats. They also need regular veterinary check-ups and may require special lighting to maintain their health.
These animals have a long lifespan, with some species living up to 50 years or more.
6. Parakeet
Parakeets are delightful companions for first-time pet owners. These colorful, chatty birds bring life and energy to any home without demanding too much. Their small size makes them perfect for apartments or homes with limited space.
Caring for a parakeet is relatively simple. They require a spacious cage, fresh water, a varied diet of pellets, seeds, vegetables, and plenty of toys to entertain them.
Parakeets are social creatures and thrive on interaction, so talking to them and offering gentle handling can lead to a strong bond. With proper care, these feathered friends can live up to 10 years.
7. Gerbil
Gerbils are energetic and curious rodents that make excellent pets for beginners. These small, desert-dwelling creatures are known for their playful nature and low-maintenance care requirements. They are fascinating because of their active lifestyle and tendency to stand on their hind legs.
To keep a gerbil happy, you’ll need a large tank filled with bedding for them to burrow in, an exercise wheel, and some chew toys.
Gerbils are social animals and do best in pairs or small groups of the same sex. Their relatively short 2-3 years lifespan makes them a good choice for those not ready for a long-term commitment.
Regular spot cleaning and weekly thorough cage cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy environment for these little adventurers.
8. Bearded Dragon
Bearded dragons are among the most popular reptile pets, and for good reason. These gentle lizards are known for their docile nature and relatively easy care requirements.
Their unique appearance and calm demeanor make them fascinating pets for children and adults.
Setting up a proper habitat is crucial for bearded dragons. They need a large terrarium with a basking area, UVB lighting, and appropriate substrate. Their diet consists of insects and vegetables, with the ratio changing as they age.
Bearded dragons can live up to 10-15 years with proper care and a long-term commitment.
However, their laid-back personality and ease of handling make them an excellent choice for first-time reptile owners.
9. Canary
Canaries are renowned for their beautiful songs and vibrant plumage, making them a joy in any home.
These small birds are perfect for those who want a pet to observe rather than handle extensively. Their cheerful melodies can brighten up even the gloomiest of days.
Caring for a canary involves providing a spacious cage, a varied diet of pellets, seeds, fresh vegetables, and plenty of perches and toys. Unlike other birds, canaries don’t require as much direct interaction, making them ideal for busy individuals.
With proper care, these melodious companions can live for 10-15 years.
Regular cage cleaning and a draft-free environment are key to keeping your canary healthy and singing.
10. Plecostomus
For aquarium enthusiasts looking for a low-maintenance addition, the plecostomus, or “pleco,” is an excellent choice. These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their algae-eating habits, which can help keep your tank clean.
Their unique appearance and peaceful nature make them a fascinating addition to any aquarium.
Plecos are relatively easy to care for. They require a well-maintained tank with plenty of hiding spots and driftwood for grazing. While they primarily eat algae, supplementing their diet with algae wafers and blanched vegetables is important.
These fish can grow large, so research the specific species to ensure your tank can accommodate them long-term.
With proper care, plecos can live for 10-15 years, providing enjoyment for fish-keeping novices.
11. Rabbit
Rabbits are adorable, gentle creatures that can make wonderful pets for first-time owners. These fluffy companions are known for their playful nature and can form strong bonds with their human families.
Their quiet demeanor makes them suitable for apartment living, though they require more space than some smaller pets.
To care for a rabbit, you’ll need a spacious enclosure, plenty of hay for eating and burrowing, fresh vegetables, and rabbit pellets. Regular exercise outside their cage is crucial for their physical and mental well-being.
Rabbits are social animals and often do well in pairs. With proper care, these charming pets can live 8-12 years.
However, they require specialized veterinary care, so access to a rabbit-savvy vet is essential.
12. African Dwarf Frog
For those intrigued by aquatic pets but not ready for a full aquarium setup, African dwarf frogs are an excellent option.
These tiny amphibians are fully aquatic and can thrive in a small, well-maintained tank. Their unique appearance and gentle nature make them fascinating to observe.
Caring for African dwarf frogs is relatively simple. They require a small aquarium with clean, dechlorinated water, a gentle filter, and some hiding spots.
These carnivorous frogs should be fed a specially formulated frog food diet or frozen bloodworms. Regular water changes and tank maintenance are crucial for their health.
With proper care, these little frogs can live for 5-10 years, providing a long-term but low-maintenance pet experience.
13. Corn Snakes
Corn snakes are a great choice for first-time reptile owners due to their docile nature and straightforward care requirements. These beautiful snakes come in various colors and patterns and typically grow to a manageable size of 3-5 feet.
To care for a corn snake, provide a secure enclosure with appropriate heating, hiding spots, and substrate.
Corn snakes are carnivorous and should be fed a diet of appropriately sized mice or rats every 7-14 days, depending on their age and size.
Regular cleaning and handling can help keep your corn snake healthy and well-socialized.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.