The suggestion that gerbils and hamsters don't need water is a myth. A common cause of death in young rodents is their inability to reach or operate the watering device or to gnaw hard seeds or pellets. Diets should not be changed often or diarrhea may develop. Proper diet and housing will prolong their lives. Diseases Rabbits and rodents are susceptible to several diseases, and a good pet owner should be aware of changes in an animal's behavior or appearance.
Pneumonia is common in rats, rabbits and guinea pigs.
Diarrhea and skin diseases occur frequently in all species. A veterinarian should be consulted when disease problems arise. Danger to Man Pet rabbits and rodents rarely have diseases transmissible to man. The usual precautions of avoid ing bites and scratches and treating or isolating sick animals should be observed. Summary Rabbits and small rodents make good pets, but they must be properly fed, handled and housed.