Caring Tips for Pet Lemmings

Lemmings make fascinating and adorable pets. While they might not be commonly found in the Americas, they are beloved companions in various parts of Europe. However, unlike many other small animals, lemmings require a specialized diet to thrive. Ensuring their well-being involves meeting their specific dietary and habitat needs, as well as maintaining their health and safety.

Offer leafy greens and grasses. In their natural habitat, grasses form the bulk of a lemming's diet. Therefore, it's crucial to provide a diet consisting mostly of finely chopped alfalfa, cabbage, kale, broccoli, and spinach, along with plenty of timothy hay. Avoid giving them fruits.

Include seeds or specialized food in their diet. Alongside grasses and leafy greens, your lemmings can benefit from a mix of seeds or specialized food available at pet stores. This variety adds nutritional diversity to their diet and promotes their overall well-being.

Limit sugar intake. Lemmings are sensitive to sugar and can develop health issues like diabetes if they consume too much sugar. Be cautious about the food you offer them, avoiding sugary treats and opting for low-sugar options. Consult a vet if you're unsure about a specific food's sugar content.

Ensure access to ample water.

Despite their small size, lemmings require a significant amount of water to thrive. Provide both a water bowl and a bottle in their habitat, and remember to replenish the water daily to keep it fresh.

Choose a spacious terrarium. Opt for a terrarium of at least 15 gallons (57 liters) to accommodate your lemmings' need for space and movement. Ensure the enclosure is escape-proof and well-ventilated, favoring glass enclosures with secure wire or mesh tops.

Provide a minimum of 8 inches (20 cm) of bedding. Lemmings, being burrowing animals, require ample bedding material for their habitat. Use a combination of 4 inches (10 cm) of aspen wood shavings followed by 4 inches (10 cm) of hay, which they'll utilize for nesting and eating. Regularly check for dampness in the bedding and replace it promptly to prevent health issues for your lemmings.

Avoid direct sunlight exposure. Ensure that the terrarium is not exposed to direct sunlight, as this can elevate the temperature inside. Lemmings prefer cooler temperatures reminiscent of their arctic habitat, ideally between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (13 and 24 degrees Celsius). Temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) are unsuitable for lemmings.

Install a network of hamster tubes. Lemmings enjoy exploring their environment through a series of interconnected tubes, similar to hamsters and gerbils. Adjust the size of the tube network according to the number of lemmings to provide ample space for all individuals and to allow for separation between dominant and subordinate lemmings.

Introduce a running wheel. Place a mouse-sized running wheel in the lemming habitat to promote physical activity and mental stimulation. This addition, along with the hamster tubes, offers an avenue for exercise and entertainment, contributing to the overall well-being of your lemmings.

Provide appropriate chewing material for your lemmings. Lemmings have constantly growing molars, so it's essential to offer them items to chew on to prevent dental issues and destructive behavior. Options include willow branches, popsicle sticks, grass twigs, and organic chew sticks available in pet stores.

House same-sex lemmings together. Since many lemming species are social animals, it's best to keep them in groups of 3 to 8 of the same sex in a properly sized habitat. Avoid keeping too many males together to prevent overcrowding and aggression. Consult a vet for advice on social dynamics and suitable group sizes.

Monitor introductions of new lemmings. Introducing a new lemming to an existing group requires caution to prevent conflict. Choose a neutral area for introductions, introduce lemmings individually, and observe their interactions closely. Ensure that the existing lemmings accept the newcomer before leaving them unsupervised.

Regularly clean the habitat. Maintain a clean habitat by washing it weekly with antibacterial soap. Transfer the lemmings to a temporary cage, empty and wash the terrarium and its contents, then allow everything to dry before returning the lemmings. Regular cleaning helps prevent the spread of bacteria and keeps the habitat hygienic.

Schedule regular veterinary check-ups for your lemmings. Ensure your lemmings receive veterinary care every six months to a year. Routine check-ups allow the vet to assess their health and address any medical issues promptly. Seek veterinary attention promptly if any of your lemmings show signs of illness to ensure their well-being and longevity.