5 Low-Maintenance Pets to Consider

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5 Low-Maintenance Pets to Consider

Staff Writer · May 24, 2010

Low maintenance pets are wonderful in that they enable you to have warmth and something to care for in your home without requiring much effort. While you may want a pet, you may not have unlimited time or funds to dedicate to an animal. Fortunately, there are several pets out there that require minimal effort. Prior to choosing a pet, thoroughly research its diet, exercise and other needs. The following are a few low-maintenance pets to consider.

1. Cats

As a whole, cats are mainly self-sufficient. Very rarely do you need to groom or exercise a cat. Feeding a cat is as simple as providing fresh water and food once or twice a day. Unless you have several cats, you most likely will not need to clean a litter box more than every few days. Caring for a cat is made even easier by automatic litter box cleaners and water and food dispensers, meaning that you may not have to do anything daily for the cat’s care.

2. Fish

Fish are fed once a day and require no walking or other daily exercise. Provided the filter and other tank components are working properly, you should not have to clean the tank more than once a month. However, it is smart to keep your tank small and not purchase too many fish, as this will keep the amount of effort you must expend on their behalf to a minimum.

3. Elderly Dogs

An elderly dog needs little exercise and will often eat very little because they are no longer expending much energy. Choose an elderly dog that does not need to be washed frequently, such as a small poodle to eliminate the need for regular baths. Also make sure that the dog does not have significant dental problems to eliminate the need for cleanings more than once a year. However, be aware that elderly dogs can have medical or other problems that could become quite time and money consuming.

4. Small Birds

You may be surprised by how much joy a single small bird can provide. Such a bird requires only a small cage and changing of newspaper and food every few days. Small birds require no exercise and, depending on the bird, may be let out of their cage without causing much damage to your furniture or other belongings. Birds are the perfect pet for those who travel frequently, as their care takes less than ten minutes, does not have to be daily, and can be done by almost anyone.

5. Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Gerbils

These small mammals are confined to a cage, requiring no exercise. Caring for them requires only daily feedings and weekly cage changes. However, cleaning their cages could be a production depending on the number and size of the pet. Additionally, these animals can smell, meaning you may need to change their cage more frequently. Overall, though, by just needing daily feedings and weekly cage cleanings, these animals can provide entertainment and affection without much effort.

There are many pet options for those that desire one but cannot or do not want to put much effort into their care. Prior to choosing a pet, thoroughly consider what you want in a pet and how much time and energy you are willing to dedicate to their upkeep.

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