“Muuuum, can we have a puppy?” “Muuum, why can’t I have a hamster like Kirsty?” – if you’re tired of being pleaded with for a pet, but don’t want to commit to 7 years of vet’s bills and house training, we’ve got some much better alternatives. They’re pretty much free, fun, educational and they’ll leave you with enough free time to put your feet up and play bingo online at the end of a long day instead of needing to clear out a litter tray. Stand by for our favorite free (or nearly free) no-hassle pets!
1.Sea Monkeys
These cute little brine shrimps are very cool faff-free pets – and, best of all, your kids get to be the ones who bring them to life! Once you’ve started your sea monkeys, all you need to do is feed them once a week with yeast and spirulina. Turn sea monkeys into a challenge by seeing which of your kids can keep them alive for the longest!
2. Caterpillars (& Moths!)
Caterpillars make amazing free, no-fuss pets. Not only are they weird and wonderful to watch, if you look after them well they’ll eventually transform into a moth or butterfly! Magic!
To get yourself a caterpillar companion, simply go hunting in your garden or the park. When you’ve found your little friend, handle it with care and pop it in a jam jar at least three times the size of its body. Put a layer of soil in the bottom and add a few twigs and leaves from the plant it was on when you found it. To keep it nice and safe, tie a gauze or cheesecloth over the top of the jar (holes in lids can be harmful). You can find a really thorough guide to caterpillar care here.
3. Ant Farms
Ant farms are an awesome low-maintenance pet option – and they’re absolutely fascinating to watch as your colony digs their complex system of tunnels. Brilliant for aspiring little Attenboroughs. You can even make your own at home for free if you’re feeling especially clever. The best bit though has to be collecting your new companions.
4. Snails
Snails make great “one day” pets, brilliant for hanging out with in the garden and studying. You could even collect a few snail friends and organise a snail raise. Ready, steady, crawl!
5. Tamagotchis
If you and your little ones aren’t too keen on our creepy crawly companions, these retro 90’s electronic pets are the perfect way to introduce kids to pet care. Tamagotchis need lots of attention, feeding, cleaning and trips to the electronic vet!
Do your little ones have any of our favorite no-fuss pets? Have you found any other free little creatures to keep your amateur biologists happy? Share your snaps and ideas with our readers below or drop our team a tweet @TwoLittleFleas
This post currently has no comments, be the first.
Leave a Comment