Top 10 Rare Rodents as Pets

Gambian Pouched Rat (Cricetomys gambianus)

Selvom den primært er kendt for at opdage miner og tuberkulose i Afrika, holdes denne intelligente og sociale gnaver også som kæledyr. Den kan blive op til 90 cm lang med hale og kræver god plads og masser af aktivering. I Danmark er det lovligt at holde den, men den er meget sjælden i privat eje. Den knytter sig til sin ejer og kan lære enkle kommandoer.

Degus (Octodon degus)

Although it is primarily known for detecting landmines and tuberculosis in Africa, this intelligent and social rodent is also kept as a pet. It can grow up to 90 cm long including the tail and requires plenty of space and stimulation. In Denmark, it is legal to keep, but it is very rare in private ownership. It bonds with its owner and can learn simple commands.

Patagonian Mara (Dolichotis patagonum)

A large rodent from South America that looks like a cross between a hare and a small deer. It is calm, social, and requires plenty of space – ideally a garden or a large enclosure. Maras are legal to keep in Denmark and are often kept as exotic pets on hobby farms. They form strong bonds with humans and can become tame with time and patience.

African Spiny Mouse (Acomys spp.)

These small, spiky mice resemble miniature hedgehogs and are a rare but fascinating rodent species. They are social and should be kept in groups. Their cautious nature and distinctive appearance make them a curiosity among rodent enthusiasts. They are legal to keep and are gradually becoming more popular in specialized circles.

European Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus spp.)

Ground squirrels from this genus are legal to keep in Denmark, as long as they are captive-bred. They are diurnal, energetic, and very engaging to observe. They require ample space and opportunities to dig. While not commonly found in the pet trade, they can be sourced from specialized breeders and can become tame with patience.

Jerboa (Jaculus spp.)

With their long hind legs and kangaroo-like hops, jerboas are among the most unusual rodents. They are nocturnal and require a dry environment with space to jump and dig. Although not common, they are legal to keep in Denmark and appeal to those looking for a truly unique pet. However, they are not suited for handling and require a calm and quiet environment.

Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Although chinchillas are somewhat more common than others on this list, they are still considered exotic pets in Denmark. With their extremely soft fur and nocturnal habits, they are fascinating companions that require special food and access to dust baths. They can become very tame but do not enjoy sudden movements – making them a perfect match for calm, responsible owners.

African Ground Squirrel (Xerus inauris)

These diurnal rodents from southern Africa are rare in captivity but known for their social nature and high activity levels. They require plenty of space and are not handleable in the traditional sense, but are extremely fascinating to observe. They are legal to keep in Denmark but require documentation proving legal origin.

Winter White Dwarf Hamster / Russian Dwarf Hamster (Phodopus sungorus)

The Winter White Russian dwarf hamster is not rare in itself, but certain color variants and mutations – such as “blue” or “mandarin” – are very rare and highly sought after by collectors. They are small, social, and easy to care for, but require patient acclimation to become tame. Depending on their color and origin, they can be unique pets with distinct characteristics.

Ryukyu Long-Tailed Giant Rat (Diplothrix legata)

An extremely rare rodent in captivity, but legal to keep in Denmark if obtained through specialized breeding. These rats have a strange, scaly tail and a calm demeanor. They require a large enclosure with opportunities to hide and explore. Not commonly available in the pet trade, they appeal to those seeking something truly unique.

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