Rodents are an order of mammals that are usually identified by common habits and characteristics, such as teeth suitable for biting. Many of them have earned the sympathy of the human species and have awakened the desire for adoption. They have been domesticated to the point of classifying certain species as domestic rodents. To clarify, in this article of Animal Expert, we explain the concept of domestic rodent or pet, according to the law and its common characteristics. We select and explain 27 types of domestic rodents: species, breeds and striking characteristics.
Rodents (Rodentia) are an order of mammals covering more than 2000 species. In Brazil alone, more than 230 species with territorial presence are listed, according to the Brazilian Rodent Guide. [1] Capybars, rats, squirrels, mice and hamsters are among the best known animals in this group. However, not all rodents are pets. According to IBAMA [2], pets may be considered to those whose adoption has been authorized and certified:
Art.2 For the purposes of this regulatory instruction, the following definitions are adopted:
I – pet or companion: animal of a native wild species, born in a commercial hatchery authorized for this purpose, kept in domestic captivity, for no purposes of slaughter, reproduction, scientific use, laboratory use, commercial use or exposure.
It is important not to confuse pets with pets. Pets can be pets, but they can also be farm or work animals. Adaptability, natural reproduction, captivity and short life cycle are the characteristics of pets, according to IBAMA [3]. In Brazil, domestic rodents are:
Rabbits are not rodents. Despite their habits, they are considered lagomorphs.
Some of the most adopted species as domestic rodents in Brazil are
They are among the most popular pet rodents. They are easily distinguished from rats by the absence of sticks and cheeks that stand out. Not all species of hamsters are pet-friendly, sensitive and sensitive animals. Adopting them as a pet requires veterinary follow-up, just like any other species.
In Brazil, the best-known species of domestic hamsters are:
The Syrian hamster is an endangered species in the wild. It usually measures between 15 and 17 cm and attracts attention thanks to its soft and shiny fur. Because he has a more shy and reserved temperament, he needs time to adjust to the tutor. Check the full archive with all the information about the Syrian hamster.
The Russian dwarf hamster is a pet rodent that does not exceed 11 cm in length. Its colors can vary greatly and its behavior is smooth and sociable. Another striking feature of this hamster breed is the possibility of hibernation, of some individuals, habit of their wild state that may manifest in some pet rodents. You can read here the full file on the Russian dwarf hamster.
It is important to differentiate between the wild cuy (Cavia aperea tschudii), also known as cuy or preo, from the domestic cuy, whose domestication and captive breeding have resulted in breeds of domestic cuyes with physical characteristics. that differentiate them:
Regardless of the breed of guinea pig you adopt as pet rodent, the treatments are the same. Consult a veterinarian, follow the feeding recommendations of the guinea pig and provide an appropriate environment, care and company.
Confusion may occur between domestic rats, domestic rats and domestic rodents. Domestic rats are rodent species that, as the name suggests, can be domesticated, as can rats. This does not mean that you can adopt any mouse. Some species of wild and domestic rodents in some habitats are vectors of diseases such as leptospirosis, scabies, among others. If you have met one at home, it is advisable to scare them. We suggest these tips to scare the mice without hurting or hurting them. Symptoms such as reddish eyes or nasal secretions, open holidays, noisy breathing may indicate the presence of these diseases. If you’ve come to receive the animal, it’s essential to take it to the vet.
They are intelligent, affectionate, playful and fun animals. Both, when adopted as domestic animals, must live in the company of others of the same species with certain restrictions: male rats can live with other sterilized females, but cannot be with another male unless it is born; rats should preferably live with another individual of the same species.
Once health conditions are certified, rats and rats such as pet rodents need large cages, a feeder, fountain, a nest or a collecting hut, in addition to taking care of food and the amount of food offered.
The most common species of domestic rats and mice known as domestic rodents are:
It is a breed of domestic rat that can be adopted as long as it is in the breeding and health assessment conditions. The Twister Dumbo draws attention and bears this nickname for its large ears, as well as a short coat whose colors can vary: white, grey, light gray and brown tones.
Domestic chinchilla is considered a domestic rodent for IBAMA [3] only when reproduced in authorized captivity. They are docile, sociable, intelligent and expressive rodent pets. Females are generally larger than males and can weigh up to 800 g. It has a high life expectancy, from 10 to 15 years, under the right conditions of care. Read the full article about chinchilla as a pet.
Wild domestic rodents are those that are not on the IBAMA pet list. Its adoption must be regulated and certified. Some of the wild rodent species that are of interest to adoption are:
Gerbil is a rare species of squirrel in Brazil because it is not native. It is a rodent that has habits that may resemble those of the hamster. Although it is not considered a domestic rodent, it can be adopted in certified hatcheries.
Capybars are the largest rodents in the world and can weigh up to 91 kg. They can only be adopted as pet rodents by regularizing by IBAMA and the appropriate breeding conditions, as they need sufficient space and all their needs are covered. Unless you live on a farm suitable for this, it is not recommended to have a capybara as a pet at home. We suggest that you read the full article on capybara as a pet.
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