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<h2 class="">
 Pet options that require minimal care but deserve plenty of affection
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 Let’s clarify this point: There really aren’t any truly maintenance-free pets out there. "I favor using 'lower' instead of 'low-maintenance' since taking care of any live animal is quite a significant obligation," explains Dr. Dana Varble, DVM, who serves as the Chief Veterinary Officer at North American Veterinary Community. Nearly every creature, even those considered less demanding, still require considerable attention and effort from their owners.
 apartment dogs
 ,
 fluffy cats
 ,
 cute ferrets
 ,
 colorful lizards
 , and even
 low-maintenance dogs
 They may develop health issues, particularly if not cared for adequately. This will understandably lead to more complex care requirements (and higher costs).
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 Every type of animal should get a yearly checkup at the vet, and these days there is health care for just about every pet. “There are board-certified aquatic veterinarians that will gladly perform surgery on your goldfish, and I have seen hamsters that have gone for CT scans,” says veterinarian Matthew McCarthy, DVM, founder of Juniper Valley Animal Hospital in Middle Village, New York. “So it’s worth noting that everything is a low-maintenance pet until it’s not.”
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 With that in mind, animal experts suggested these low-maintenance pets. None require the sort of grooming and hair care you’d provide a puppy. Many don’t require daily, hands-on care. And most have habitats and feeding needs that are easy to manage.
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 Eastern newt
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 Talk about certified kid-friendly: Dr. McCarthy had these little guys when he was a kid and recommends them for prospective pet owners who don’t have a ton of time to dedicate to critter care. These low-maintenance pets are just five inches long and can live 10 to 15 years. “They can be kept in a small aquarium and typically don’t need a heated tank as long as your home is at a comfortable temperature,” he says. If your house is on the cooler side or you just want to create a newt paradise, a
 10-gallon tank with heat and light
 will do the trick.
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 Newts can consume different types of live food such as earthworms or commercially available options.
 amphibian diet
 . Their slimy skin acts as a barrier against bacteria, so they’re more of a look-don’t-touch kind of pet. And here’s something
 Your pet shop could possibly withhold this information from you.
 According to Dr. McCarthy, it's advisable to opt for an Eastern newt since many Western newts produce a strong neurotoxin that you should avoid dealing with.
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<h2>
 Hermit crab
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 You may want to grab one of these cute low-maintenance creatures when you're at the seaside, but refrain from doing so. Marine crabs are not suitable as pets.
 illegal pets
 And they should remain at the beach. However, land hermit crabs can be obtained from pet stores. You will need to purchase one.
 hermit crab tank
 , plus an
 under-tank heat pad
 Additionally, include a sizable water bowl to keep the enclosure warm and humid. Caring for them becomes simple and budget-friendly after this setup. Hermit crabs thrive socially and become livelier when kept together and during nighttime activities. As stated by Dr. McCarthy, "Caretaking several hermit crabs doesn't require much more effort compared to taking care of just one; thus, keeping multiple crabs is advised." When provided with appropriate conditions, these small communal creatures have been known to survive anywhere between five to fifteen years.
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 Norway rat
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 Yes, this rodent is the same species that roams city streets, rummaging through garbage and generally being a menace. But surprisingly, they make good low-maintenance pets. (You know, if the idea of a rat doesn’t completely freak you out.) Just keep this one warning in mind: Never rescue one from the streets because it can carry and spread a disease called leptospirosis, which is dangerous to humans and pets. Instead, seek out a pet rat breeder.
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 “They make great pets and will chill out with you on your lap while you read, watch television, or work on the computer,” says Dr. McCarthy. The more time you spend with them, the sweeter and more friendly they get. They’re a good option for
 people who are allergic to dogs and cats
 He recommends obtaining two, since they tend to be more content when sharing space with a roommate—noting that coed housing isn't necessary unless you're planning for reproduction purposes. Cleaning duties will not consume much of your day; these creatures are quite hygienic, similar to felines. In terms of setting up their habitat, consider the following:
 roomy wire cage
 with a
 hiding box
 , an
 exercise wheel
 , and food keeps these playful rodents content.
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<h2>
 Goldfish
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<p>
 When considering low-maintenance pets, the unassuming goldfish could very well be among the simplest and most budget-friendly options. As an exchange, it offers significant benefits for your wellbeing. Various research indicates that observing fish can lead to reduced blood pressure levels. Additionally, interacting with them often feels like confiding in someone who listens without interrupting you.
 gill-splitting fish puns
 Goldfish do well when they have company; thus, think about acquiring a few companions for them. "These fish can better tolerate changes in water conditions and temperature compared to numerous others," according to Dr. Varble.
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 In spite of this, they generate considerable waste. Therefore, if you wish to avoid the task of changing the water periodically, invest in a
 filtered tank
 with
 plants
 for them to conceal themselves behind
 aquarium gravel
 Dr. Varble mentions that you'll get numerous chances to redo their habitat since goldfish are quite resilient and can survive for 10 to 30 years.
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 Syrian hamster
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 If waking up early isn’t your thing, the
 cute Syrian hamster
 Could make an ideal pocket companion for you. These creatures thrive during nighttime hours. According to Dr. McCarthy, "Syrian hamsters typically require minimal care, remain relatively silent, can be held gently with tameness, and provide entertainment particularly as they use their running wheels." Being among the calmest types of hamsters, they usually like human interaction; however, regular handling each day helps acclimate them to your presence. Cleaning their habitat remains uncomplicated since they tend to excrete waste in just one area. Ensure you supply
 wheel for exercise
 and a
 toy tunnel
 , but not another hamster. Some
 Pet combos can never coexist.
 And this is one of those cases. 'These hamsters are among the most solitary creatures found in nature; they can be very territorial. Therefore, they should always be kept separately. Otherwise, you'll fully grasp what people mean when they talk about a "cage fight,"' explains Dr. McCarthy.
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 Budgerigar
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 Wanting to chat with someone? A budgerigar, commonly referred to as a budgie, might just be the talkative feathered companion you've been searching for. "These birds are very sociable and enjoy interacting with humans, fellow avian species, and even pets," explains Dr. McCarthy. Budgies often pick up new habits and can imitate sounds and speech."
 pet secret
 You may not realize this: While they primarily imitate rather than engage in conversation, budgies can be taught to react to signals and vocal instructions. According to Dr. McCarthy, "Among the 115 types of small parrots called parakeets, budgies are the most common, probably because they have a cheaper upfront cost and require less upkeep."
 roomy cage
 With food, water, a place to sit, and a couple of accessories,
 toys that produce noise and have shiny surfaces
 make sure budgies continue to sing your compliments.
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 Plecostomus
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 At the pinnacle of easy-care pets lies one that tidies up after itself. This is precisely why many pet enthusiasts favor the plecostomus—a fish renowned for assisting with cleaning its own aquarium. Referred to variously as algae eaters, suckerfish, and simply plecos, these resilient creatures have an impressive lifespan of around 15 years. These fishes belong to the catfish family and exhibit adaptability to different water temperatures and environmental conditions within tanks; they also offer diversity in their appearances.
 variety of colors
 “and dimensions,” explains Dr. Varble. Their task is to search the tank’s base and eliminate the algae. They perform an excellent job, yet you still have responsibilities; regular cleaning will be necessary. Should you seek a companion for your goldfish, the pleco serves as both a tidy and tranquil roommate, particularly if you choose the smaller Bristlenase pleco, reaching lengths between three to five inches. The pleco adores algae, and
 sinking algae wafers
 make sure they have plenty of provisions stocked up.
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 Crested gecko
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 Crested geckos are among the
 species that were brought back from the edge of disappearance
 , and they adjusted to captivity remarkably well, making them the simplest reptiles to keep as pets, according to Dr. Varble. This is due to the fact that, unlike many other reptiles, these low-care animals do not require additional UV lighting. "These creatures,"
 tank
 The setup process is quite straightforward, and geckos can be fully cared for using a readily accessible nutritious powdered diet; however, they also enjoy feeder insects as occasional snacks," explains Dr. Varble. These charming creatures, known for their constant grin-like appearance, handle well without showing signs of biting. They exhibit an extensive range of vivid hues and designs and have the ability to alter their coloration for camouflaging purposes, similar to how some lizards adapt under specific circumstances.
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 Corn snake
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 "Before dismissing the notion of keeping a snake as a pet, think about the appealing traits of the manageable corn snake: they can survive well past two decades and make excellent company for individuals with demanding work schedules, extended shifts, or frequent travels," explains Dr. Varble. While many folks seek ways to prevent snakes from entering their houses rather than welcoming them inside, the corn snake stands out among commonly domesticated species. These reptiles possess gentle dispositions, seldom resorting to biting, and boast vibrant hues, which means even if handling isn't your preference, you can still admire their striking appearance. In terms of minimal upkeep requirements, few pets compare. "An uncomplicated
 20- to 40-gallon tank
 "Setting up heating, UV lighting, and daylight cycles on timers can be effortlessly managed for these vibrant and low-maintenance snakes," explains Dr. Varble. They feed
 thawed frozen food
 Once per week; adults may be fed once every two weeks instead.
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 Chinchilla
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 Chinchillas boast incredibly soft, dense, velvety coats that seem made for cozying up next to your face. However, these creatures aren’t particularly fond of such close contact with people. Instead, they enjoy darting around and investigating their environment. This doesn’t mean you should avoid interacting with them altogether; rather, gaining their trust requires time, along with patient and regular gentling techniques, according to Dudder. Even when handled, most chinchillas won’t linger in the confines of your palms for very long—they tend to scale you more like a living jungle gym. And since they're active mainly during twilight hours and nighttime, much of this playful climbing happens under cover of darkness.
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 When it comes to chinchilla burrows, they're quite simple. "They need a
 nesting box
 for comfort and to ensure they feel safe and secure
 dust bath
 "multiple times each week to clean off dirt and oil from its coat," explains Dudder. Your tiny pet will groom itself.
 chinchilla dust
 Once completed, you'll have to take away the bathtub to ensure it isn't utilized as a bathroom. These adorable creatures desire some time outside their enclosure.
 designated small, safe area
 , this is an aspect you should keep in mind.
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 Holland Lop
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 Perhaps you've already been searching for this.
 cute bunny pictures
 But finding the perfect breed might be challenging since rabbits are incredibly fluffy and adorable. While numerous rabbit varieties serve well as pets, Dudder highlights that Holland Lops stand out among the friendlier types. However, it’s crucial to understand that within the animal kingdom, rabbits are viewed as prey animals and generally do not enjoy being "caught"—meaning lifted or embraced. Nonetheless, through patient and tender handling methods, having a cuddly companion will eventually become achievable.
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 "They require more space compared to other low-maintenance pets and should have opportunities to stretch and exercise with your close oversight," explains Dudder. Additional bunny benefit: They can be
 litter box
 trained, which makes cleaning the cage somewhat simpler. The rabbits consume a store-bought diet consisting of fresh fruits and veggies along with hay. Similar to other tiny pets, these bunnies require an annual veterinary examination. "Overgrown teeth are frequent in rabbits and can result in significant health problems if left unaddressed," explains Dudder.
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 Dutch rabbit
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<p>
 Here’s yet another adorable bunny alternative for you. The Dutch rabbit boasts a delightful personality along with a distinctive white marking resembling a saddle across its back and a prominent white stripe down its face and neck. Their primary fur hues can include shades of black, blue, chocolate, gray, steel, or tortoiseshell. Dudder appreciates these bunnies as an easy-care companion due to their lively and loving nature. However, similar to all rabbits, they require time to build confidence before fully engaging with humans according to their own comfort levels.
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 As rabbits flourish when socialized, you may house two rabbits from different breeds together provided they have been spayed or neutered. This way, not only will they relish spending time with one another, but they'll also love engaging with their human companions.
 playing games
 , having their fur stroked, or just hanging out. Dutch rabbits, like all rabbits, need a habitat with space to roam and play. Depending on your house, that could be an
 extra-large cage
 , exercise pen, or a rabbit-proofed room with plenty of
 hay to chew
 . If you venture outside their habitat, consider a harness and leash—incidentally, a fantastic
 pet gift
 for the bunny mom in your life—that’ll make sure your new pet doesn’t get lost.
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 Sea monkeys
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<p>
 If you’re of a certain age, you might recall the colorful sea monkey ads on the back of comic books. If you ordered some, you found out a couple of weeks later that they didn’t look anything like the creatures depicted in the ad. That’s because sea monkeys are actually brine shrimp, not exotic sea animals. Still, it was cool that tiny creatures emerged after adding water. And proof that childhood hasn’t changed much, “they’re definitely a low-price-point starter pet and very retro,” says Dr. McCarthy. There’s not much that goes into their care. The
 original Sea Monkey kit
 comes with everything to get started, except a
 fishbowl
 . In a few weeks, they’ll grow to about an inch long. “Basically, you can set it up and forget as they just need to be fed once a week,” he says. “And if it’s not going well, they can become a nice food source for your betta fish or newt.”
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<p>
 <strong>
  Sources:
 </strong>
</p>
<ul>
 <li>
  Dana Varble
  , DVM, chief veterinary officer with North American Veterinary Community
 </li>
 <li>
  Matthew McCarthy, DVM, who founded
  Juniper Valley Animal Hospital
  in Middle Village, New York
 </li>
 <li>
  Kim Dudder, who serves as the regional technical director at
  VCA Animal Hospitals
 </li>
 <li>
  PLOS One
  The impact of engaging with fish in aquariums on human health and well-being: A comprehensive review
 </li>
</ul>

13 Easy-Care Pets That Stay Fun and Furry Favorites

Unknown animals, pet advice & tips, pet care, pet owners, pets

Pet options that require minimal care but deserve plenty of affection Let’s clarify this point: There really aren’t any truly maintenance-free pets out there. "I favor using 'lower' instead …