15 Pets For People On Tight Budgets

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A pet is a huge responsibility. You will train them and provide for them for the rest of their lives. However, owning a pet isn’t exclusive to the rich. In fact, some pets are pretty cheap! As long as you are determined to provide for your pet and give them the proper care they need, you’re good to go. Here is a list of pets for people on tight budgets!

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Oranda goldfish

The Oranda goldfish is an omnivorous freshwater fish known for its fleshy cap. These social species thrive in groups of three or more. They don’t have any specific dietary requirements and can consume both plant matter and meaty protein. You can feed them with pellets and flake foods. However, they will also eat live and frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. The recommended tank for Oranda goldfish is a 30 L tank.

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Guppies

Guppies are social species that live in freshwater. You can feed them with flakes, pellets, freeze-dried or frozen foods for a well-balanced diet. To ensure your guppies are healthy, you must check the filter and water temperature daily and test the water quality weekly. You must also change the water volume every 2-4 weeks. But other than that, they do not require a lot of spending.

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Hermit crab

Hermit crabs are anthropods that use hard shells as their “home” to protect their soft abdomens, hence their name. Despite the name, these peaceful creatures interact with other crabs to exchange shells. They consume a wide variety of diets, such as plankton, worms, small fish, or any food particles.

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American guinea pig

The American guinea pig is popular because of its relaxed and friendly personality. These species do best in pairs or groups. Their main diet consists of hay, but they also consume vegetables, fruit, and treats. They require regular nail trimming and weekly brushing, but all of these can be done by you, given that you have the proper technique.

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Parrots

Parrots are very intelligent birds that can be easily taught with tricks. Although these birds naturally learn to repeat the sounds they hear multiple times, many people have successfully taught their parrotlets to “talk” after a command prompt. Aside from basic needs such as good nutrition and clean water, they also need mental stimulation daily.

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Teddy bear hamster

Teddy bear hamsters, also known as long-haired Syrian hamsters, are rodent species that primarily feed on seeds, fruit, vegetables, and grains. However, they’re avid eaters, so be careful not to overfeed them to avoid obesity. They’re friendly, active creatures that require a considerable amount of space to play and run around. They like to play in tunnels, run wheels, or chew on toys.

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Canary birds

Canary birds are popular among domesticated birds because of their charming features, attractive singing ability, and friendly nature. Plus, they require less maintenance. They just need a good-sized cage, proper nutrition from good-quality pellets, and clean water. These birds are also highly intelligent, so giving them puzzle toys will help stimulate their brains.

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Rats

Rats are rodent species that are excellent companion pets for kids and adults. You don’t have to spend much if you choose this pet, as long as you have an appropriately sized cage where they can play and move around. However, their cage requires daily cleaning to avoid diseases. Some pet stores sell them at around $5, but if you’re looking for a specific breed, you might have to shell out up to $50.

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Butterflies

If you’re wondering whether it’s okay to take butterflies as pets, the answer is yes! Just make sure to maintain the temperature and humidity of your enclosure that fits the butterfly species you have. You would also need plants that caterpillars can feed on if you plan to breed them.

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Chihuahua

Charming, graceful, and sassy — these are the main traits of a Chihuahua that most families love, especially when they have kids. These small dogs are intelligent and can mostly fend for themselves as long as you give them proper nutrition and water. They also require minimal grooming as their coats are short. A regular bath and nail trimming should do the trick.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate dogs known for their floppy ears and long, compact bodies. These small dogs have smooth, long coats that need daily brushing. Depending on their environment, you can give them a bath weekly or up to 6 weeks. Some Cavalier King Charles Spaniels stay indoors so they don’t get as dirty compared to those who get to play outdoors.

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Domestic Shorthair

Domestic shorthairs are one of the most common cat breeds in the United States. These cats are smart and easier to tame than other cat breeds. You can also easily adopt them from animal shelters and rescues. They also don’t have any dietary restrictions. However, they are not very active, so don’t overfeed them to avoid obesity.

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Turkish Van

The Turkish Van cat is a lap cat known for its playful and friendly personality. They’re one of the most affordable cats. However, adopting one is challenging because they are not easily found in shelters. These cats are active and playful, so ensure they are properly stimulated with toys and activities, since they may get a little destructive when bored.

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Cornish Rex

The Cornish Rex is a popular domestic cat breed. These cats have short hair, making them easier to maintain, as they can often clean after themselves. They’re carnivores, so they need meat on their regular diets. If you want to adopt this breed, prepare around $ 1000$ to $ 2000$. It may sound a lot, but compared to other cat breeds, these are much cheaper.

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Dachshund

Dachshunds, also known as the wiener or sausage dog, are small breeds that have long, elongated bodies. These breeds are playful, active pets that will thrive in farms or houses with yards. However, as long as they get the exercise they need, they can also live in apartments. These dogs are also great watchdogs and usually prey on badgers and rats. Dachshunds with wirehaired coats are easier to maintain compared to those with smooth coats.