Having a pet might improve your quality of life in various ways. Interestingly, pet ownership may be fun for various reasons, including the need for companionship, the desire to teach responsibility to one’s children, or the pursuit of a new hobby. Given the enormous interest in pet ownership and the growing number of people seeking to tame exotic species such as tigers, we must ask: What are the top ten best animals to have as pets in the United States? Let’s find out!
Dogs
When asked to pick the best potential pet, most people instinctively think of dogs. So in the United States, dogs are the most common home pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), more than 76 million dogs are kept as pets in the United States and are cared for by 48 million families.
Dogs demand far more upkeep than other typical home pets. Even if your dog is well-behaved when left alone for extended periods, it still needs regular walks and access to outdoor restrooms. Most dogs, however, need significantly more than this basic amount of care. When a dog is left alone for an extended period or does not receive enough exercise, it may develop destructive habits due to anxiety.
Although they are omnivores, dogs need a high-quality protein diet and like munching on fresh fruit. However, you should avoid giving your dog avocados, coffee, chocolate, garlic, or onions.
Cats
Cats are the second-most popular pet after dogs. They were first imported to North America by the English to cope with the region’s persistent rat issue. They were extensively tamed a few hundred years later, and most animal enthusiasts today consider them lovely and fascinating pets.
A cat is an excellent pet because it takes little care and attention. They’re ideal for those who can’t have regular pets due to where they live but still want to have a pet. Cats are often considered independent, yet this trait is frequently viewed negatively. Cats are often preferred over dogs as pets for those who must be away from home for lengthy periods owing to work or other obligations.
Many cats are less flashy than dogs when demonstrating affection for their owners, but that doesn’t mean they don’t feel it. Even if they don’t aggressively snuggle, most sociable cats enjoy spending time with their human companions. Most cats like snuggling up close to their human companions when watching TV or reading. Cats are more agile than small dogs and quieter than big dogs, making them excellent companions for families with youngsters. Depending on individual preferences, having a cat as a pet may be preferable to owning a dog.
Fish
Almost 12% of American families own at least one fish, and many have many more. Fish are the nation’s third-most popular pet. Setting up a fish tank and caring for its aquatic residents is a soothing pastime. A pet fish can be kept in a small tank or a large aquarium filled with schooling fish like tetras and adorned with real plants. One of the most enjoyable parts of your day will be watching the fish explore their surroundings while listening to the sound of water trickling through the filter.
Birds
One of the most enjoyable hobbies on this list is having a pet bird. Birds are excellent pets for those who do not want their animals to cuddle with them. Depending on the species, you may like birds for their vibrant personalities, stunning plumage, or adorable vocalizations. Birds are also excellent pets for anyone looking for a low-maintenance pet.
Like any other kind of pet, birds have nutritional requirements that must be met. Nonetheless, most birds like eating peanuts, fresh fruit, and birdseed. Still, they are sensitive to the harmful effects of:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Avocados
- Coffee
- Chocolate
Reptiles
In the United States, there is a growing interest in reptiles of all kinds, including lizards, snakes, salamanders, and iguanas. One of the reasons millennials like them so much is because they have a distinct flavour and appearance. It’s no secret that many people keep reptiles as pets, which may provide some interesting issues.
According to a Reptiles Cove study, 9.4 million reptiles are kept as pets in the United States, with one or more reptiles kept in each family with a pet. They are the most popular “specialty” animals as pets.
Rabbits
A rabbit might be the ideal pet if you want something you can snuggle and touch often. Your pet rabbit may need some time to adjust to being handled. Although rabbits are excellent pets for children, teaching the youngster how to handle the bunny gently is essential to avoid injuring the animal.
However, owning a pet rabbit has the potential to be one of the messiest hobbies. Keeping the cabinet clean regularly can help keep odours at bay. While rabbits may be kept inside, they enjoy spending time outdoors under close supervision.
Poultry
It may surprise you, but poultry such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese are popular pet options in many families throughout the United States. Keeping poultry as pets feels more practical than others because they lay eggs that may be sold. According to figures supplied by the American Veterinary Medical Association, demand for these creatures significantly outnumbers supply.
Hamsters
After chickens and other animals, hamsters are the most common pet. They are highly valued because of their minimal care needs, tiny size, and exceptional disease resistance. Because they are highly hardy, your hamster is more likely to die of old age than of any random sickness or illness.
Even though hamsters aren’t the most social pets at first, with enough patience and care on your side, they may grow to enjoy human companionship.
Guinea Pigs
While hamsters are more popular as pets, guinea pigs are just as adorable and amusing. Because of their similarities, most young dog owners have difficulty picking between the two breeds. They need minimal upkeep, are always active, and have a long life span.
Ferrets
Those who like connecting with unusual animals often pick ferrets as pets. They’re entertaining, personable, and a delight to be around. Keeping a few ferrets for an extended period should also be simple since ferret food is widely accessible at most pet shops.
Conclusion
The pleasures of pet ownership include the company they can offer and the emotional solace they may bring. However, before opting to keep a pet, you should balance the benefits and drawbacks of the decision and make an educated decision since pet ownership entails a significant amount of responsibility and a lifetime commitment. It is important to realize that not all pets are suitable for human situations. Generally, making an informed choice when choosing a pet is essential.