Are you considering a small and furry companion but can’t decide between rats and guinea pigs? Both of these animals are adorable, but each have their own unique characteristics and make wonderful pets for different reasons. To help you make an informed choice, let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between rats and guinea pigs.
Similarities between rats and guinea pigs
- Both animals are friendly and curious towards humans, and make great pets for kids.
- Both have a cage for a home base, so they make great pets for an apartment or other small space.
- Both pets do need time outside of their cage with you for enrichment and interaction.
- Both animals need company of their own kind, and should be kept in pairs or small groups.
- Both animals are most awake during the dawn and dusk, but will typically adapt to their owner’s sleep schedules.
Differences between rats and guinea pigs
| Category | Rats | Guinea Pigs |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 14 to 18 inches (including tail), 0.5 to 1.5 pounds. | 8 to 12 inches, 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. |
| Diet | Fresh water, pelleted or block-type diets, supplemented with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and occasional lean meats. | Fresh water, hay, fruits, vegetables, and pelleted guinea pig food. |
| Cage | Need a minimum of 2 – 2.5 cubic feet for two rats. Rats enjoy vertical climbing space. | Guinea pigs need a minimum of 7 square feet to roam around, but don’t need to climb. |
| Noise Level | Generally very quiet, with soft squeaks when they play with each other. | Can be quite vocal, especially when excited! Guinea pigs make a unique noise called “wheeking“, amongst other different vocalizations. |
| Lifespan | 2 to 3 years | 4 to 8 years |
| Smell | Moderate smell, cage should be cleaned weekly. | Moderate smell, cage should be cleaned 1-2 times per week. |
| Grooming Needs | Rats are generally clean animals, but they may need help with grooming if they are ill or elderly. You can trim their nails if they scratch you, but generally they don’t need it. | Smooth-coated guinea pigs require weekly brushing, while long-haired varieties need daily grooming. They also need regular nail trims. |
| Temperament towards People | Social, comfortable with gentle handling, recognize their owners, generally do not bite unless threatened. | Generally friendly and docile, can be shy but usually enjoy being held once they get to know their owners. |
| Common Health Concerns | Prone to tumors and respiratory diseases. | Prone to dental problems, respiratory infections, scurvy (if not provided with enough Vitamin C), and bladder stones. |
| Cohabitation with Other Animals | Rats prefer to live in pairs or small groups. They are best kept away from other pets, because larger animals stress them out. They may kill smaller animals like mice, hamsters and birds. | Guinea pigs prefer to live with at least one other guinea pig. They may get along with rabbits, dogs and cats under careful supervision. |
You should get rats if…
- You don’t want as long of a commitment. Rats only live between 2 – 3 years on average. If you’re looking for pets for kids, and are concerned your kids will get bored with a guinea pig, rats might be the better option.
- You’re concerned about allergies. Because rats are smaller and somewhat less furry than guinea pigs, they’re a bit easier on the allergies. I found that as long as I washed my hands after handling my rats, it didn’t trigger my allergies. On the other hand, I had a hard time being near guinea pigs without getting the sniffles. With that said, if you’re allergic to other furry animals you will most likely be allergic to rats too.
- You want a quieter pet. Rats are a tiny bit quieter than guinea pigs because they only squeak now and then (especially when they wrestle each other). When I had guinea pigs, they were a lot more vocal.
- You don’t have much floor space. Rats prefer a taller, more vertical cage (with bars) that they can climb. Guinea pigs aren’t climbers, and need an enclosure that’s more spread out for them to roam around.
You should get guinea pigs if…
- You want a pet with a longer lifespan. Guinea pigs can live twice as long as rats, or even longer. If rats’ short lifespans bother you, you might enjoy guinea pigs more.
- You want a larger, sturdier pet. If you’re looking for a pet for young kids, and are worried they might hurt a rat, guinea pigs might be the better choice because they’re a bit bigger. (Though they still need gentle handling.)
- You’re afraid of rat tails! Rat tails are understandably a deal breaker for some people. Guinea pigs only have little stubby tails that are almost always concealed by their fur. So they may be more appealing to you!
Conclusion
Rats are a great option if you’re seeking a pet with a shorter lifespan, smaller floor space requirements, and a quieter demeanor. They are social, comfortable with gentle handling, and affectionate towards their owners.
On the other hand, if you prefer a longer commitment, a larger and sturdier pet, and are not bothered by potential allergies, guinea pigs might be the perfect fit. Guinea pigs can live twice as long as rats and are generally friendly, docile, and also enjoy being held and spoken to.
Both rats and guinea pigs require care, attention, and a clean environment, so make sure you’re ready to provide the necessary love and support for your chosen furry companion.
