Best Small Pets for Cuddling 

Written by Jennifer Gaeng
Updated: September 2, 2023
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When it comes to finding the perfect pet, many people think of big furry animals like cats and dogs. But did you know that there are plenty of small pets out there that make great cuddle buddies? From guinea pigs to hamsters and beyond, these little critters can add a lot of love and companionship to your life. Here are some of the best small pets for cuddling.

Infographic for Best Small Pets for Cuddling
Most of these pets are rodents, which may seem odd, but they are fluffy and cute nonetheless.

Read on for more details about these darling little friends!

Guinea Pigs

guinea pig pellets

Guinea pigs can make great companions.

©Rita_Kochmarjova/Shutterstock.com

These adorable rodents are one of the best small pets for cuddling! Guinea pigs have a gentle nature and enjoy being held close in your arms or on your lap. They also need regular social interaction with their owners, so they’ll be sure to give you lots of affection in return!

Guinea pigs come in various sizes depending on breed. However, all varieties love nothing more than snuggling up close against someone’s chest. The only downside is that, unlike hamsters which typically sleep during day hours, guinea pigs tend to stay awake throughout the night. This means loud noises may occur from running around the cage after dark. Therefore, you should take caution before bringing home this type of critter unless you are willing to adjust your sleeping schedule accordingly. 

Hamsters

Hamster with the lifted paw on a white background.

Hamsters are cute, cuddly, and relatively easy to care for.

©Elya Vatel/Shutterstock.com

If you’re looking for an active companion who loves playing as much as they love cuddles, then look no further than hamsters. While these tiny creatures may not seem like ideal snuggle mates at first glance, once tamed they can become quite affectionate with their humans. This makes them one of the best small pets for those seeking unconditional love from their four-legged friends.

These little rodents are incredibly affectionate once they get used to being handled by humans. They can become very attached to their owners over time. They also enjoy snuggling up in your hand or pocket when given the chance. Just be sure not to keep them out for too long as they need plenty of rest. While hamsters do require some maintenance (they must have regular cage cleaning), overall, they’re fairly low-maintenance pets compared with larger ones like dogs or cats. This is why hamsters are one of the best small pets for cuddling.

Rabbits

Harlequin rabbits

Rabbits are sociable, and enjoy the company of other rabbits and humans.

©GoodFocused/Shutterstock.com

Who doesn’t want a fluffy bunny friend? Rabbits come in all shapes and sizes – from dwarf bunnies up to giant breeds. However, all rabbits share one common trait: an affinity towards human touch! This makes them perfect candidates for cozy evenings spent together on the couch watching TV or reading books side by side. Plus, most rabbits will even let you carry them around without protest. What more could a pet owner ask for? 

Rabbits also make excellent cuddle companions due to their gentle nature. However, like any other animal, bonding takes time so don’t expect an instant connection right away. Rabbits tend to prefer spending quality one-on-one time rather than large group play sessions. They will happily nuzzle against your neck when feeling secure enough around you (which usually requires patience). Plus, since most rabbits live indoors these days anyway, keeping them clean isn’t much trouble. This makes them ideal candidates for apartments or homes without yards/outdoor space who want a small pet companion inside instead.

Ferrets

Albino ferret

Ferrets are playful and curious, but they also love human attention.

©Couperfield/Shutterstock.com

If it’s energy and playfulness that appeals most when considering potential new family members, then ferrets should definitely be high up on any list. Not only do ferrets require minimal grooming compared to other popular pet choices such as cats and dogs, but they’re also incredibly playful and inquisitive animals who get along well with children.

While not necessarily known as “cuddly” creatures per se, they do actually crave human attention just the same way any domestic cat would. Ferrets often bond strongly with a particular person within the family. They can even learn tricks similar to how a dog does. However, the training process tends to be a bit longer due to the natural curiosity and intelligence levels present within this species.  

So, while some might think twice about inviting this mischievous creature into their home due to its reputation, rest assured knowing ferret owners often report how much joy and laughter these little guys bring into everyday life.

Hedgehogs

baby hedgehog

A relatively common pet, the baby

hedgehog

, also called a piglet, is both cute and playful.

©iStock.com/Carmelka

Hedgehogs can make good pets for some people. They are generally quiet, low maintenance, and do not require much space. Hedgehogs are also unique and interesting animals that can be fun to watch and interact with. They can be easily tamed and are quite playful.

However, it is important to note that hedgehogs can be sensitive and require specialized care. They are nocturnal animals and may be more active at night, which may not be suitable for everyone. Hedgehogs also have specific dietary needs and require a balanced diet. Additionally, some locations may have restrictions on owning hedgehogs as pets. Therefore, it is essential to research local laws and regulations.

Overall, hedgehogs can make good pets for individuals who are willing to provide the necessary care and attention required for these unique creatures. It is important to research and consult with a veterinarian or experienced hedgehog owner before deciding if a hedgehog is the right pet for you.

Chinchillas

Chinchilla (Chinchilla Lanigera) - being held

The Chinchillas are affectionate and active rodents, making for a fun and cuddly pet.

©Anya Poustozerova/Shutterstock.com

Chinchillas make good pets for some people. They have soft and fluffy coats, are generally quiet, and can be entertaining to watch. However, they also require a lot of attention and care. This includes regular dust baths, a specific diet, and a large cage. They are also sensitive animals that can become stressed easily. Therefore, they may not be the best choice for families with young children who may not understand how to handle them properly. Ultimately, it’s important to do your research and consider your lifestyle before deciding if a Chinchilla is a good pet for you.

In Conclusion

It’s important to note that not all animals are alike, and they all have different personalities, so it’s always best to research specific breeds and see which ones would fit your preferences and lifestyle.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Stephanie'screativeImages/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Jennifer Gaeng is a writer at A-Z-Animals focused on animals, lakes, and fishing. With over 15 years of collective experience in writing and researching, Jennifer has honed her skills in various niches, including nature, animals, family care, and self-care. Hailing from Missouri, Jennifer finds inspiration in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her creative spirit extends beyond her writing endeavors, as she finds joy in the art of drawing and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.

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