5 Types of Animals That Would Make The Perfect Pet For a College Student

Growing up, I was always surrounded by animals and developed a love and respect for them, thanks to my animal lover mom. I have had just about every pet you can think of and loved each one. Animals make me feel happy and never alone. As a college student, I have my cat with me that has been in my life since I was a toddler. I love caring for her, and she helps me in times of stress. After college students read this article, I hope they will feel a desire to own a pet to love and care for as well!

Fish 

Fish are an excellent pet for a college student living in a dorm, as most colleges allow this pet. With a busy college schedule, fish are not time-consuming and are easy to care for. I recommend Beta Fish because they are tough and live a long time and, of course, are beautiful to look at. Bringing one snail in the tank will keep the tank cleaner.  

Tips to remember: 

PRO: they are easy to care for, calming to watch swim, friendly to people.  

CON: fish can die quickly if not cared for properly. They can be hard to feed when gone for weeks on end, with food blocks only lasting for two weeks. Some fish can only live alone.  

Lizard 

Lizards make great pets and are a step up from fish because many lizards interact with humans on a more personal level. Their tank is simple to clean and does not take up a large amount of space. I recommend a leopard gecko because they are incredibly kind and thrive when being correctly cared for. A bearded dragon is ranked one of the best reptile pets, they live for up to 15 years, and they each have original personalities.  

Tips to remember:    

PRO: eats fruit and vegetables, friendly, lives a long time, not extremely expensive. 

CON: Eats live food a few times a week, needs perfect temperature in the tank, years of commitment. 

Hamster

Hamsters are cute little rodents that most people see in pet stores sleeping in a hut, but they are much more than this. Even with a healthy size cage, it does not take up a lot of space for a college student. As long as a hamster’s cage is cleaned often, it will not smell. If a hamster is tamed they can become extremely friendly and an excellent pet for all ages. They love food and can quickly learn tricks with treats. They are lovable and adorable. 

Tips to remember: 

PRO: cute, friendly when respected and tamed, not a huge commitment because they do not live long, active, and playful personalities. 

CON: can bite if not cared for correctly, the cage has to be cleaned often, make a lot of noise at night (nocturnal), only live up to 3 years. 

Gerbil

Gerbils, like hamsters, are small rodents. They are quick and entertaining to watch in their cage, often curious and they love to be around other gerbils. They become connected to their primary caregivers and show signs of loneliness when they are gone. Gerbils are perfect for a college student who wants to care for an animal without a considerable responsibility but still wants interactions often.  

Tips to remember:  

PRO: social animals bond with owners well, entertaining to watch, live up to seven years.  

CON: lengthy commitment, need two gerbils, nocturnal and loud at night.  

Cat

Cats are a more significant responsibility than the other pets listed above, but are proven to lower stress levels that can help a college student. They are a great companion and keep people from feeling lonely. They use a litter box, so no need to walk them. As long as they are treated well and feel comfortable with their owner, they are extremely friendly. Overall they will put a smile on any persons face, and is easy to fall in love with them. 

Tips to remember:  

PRO: friendly, calming, self-sufficient, live up to 20 years.    

CON: must go to the vet, a long time commitment, can be unfriendly if they are not treated correctly. 

Sometimes college students need to take their minds off school and focus on something that will bring them joy, like a pet to care for and love. Whatever pet people choose, know they will be a great addition to your life with their sweet, playful, calming, stress-relieving, and loveable nature. Remember, there is a pet for everyone.

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