Small Animal Supplies - Other

Small Animal Supplies in the UK: Smart Buying Guide, Popular Offers, and How to Compare Prices for the Best Value

Why “Other” Small Animal Supplies Matter More Than You Think

When you think of small animal supplies, your mind probably jumps straight to cages, food, and bedding. But the “other” category—things like water bottles, hideouts, litter pans, chew toys, travel carriers, grooming tools, and cleaning sprays—often makes the biggest difference in your pet’s comfort and your day-to-day routine. Whether you’re stocking up for a hamster, guinea pig, rabbit, ferret, mouse, rat, gerbil, or chinchilla, the right accessories can transform your setup from basic to brilliant. And if you’re in the UK hunting for savings, comparing prices across retailers through a comparison site can help you catch those popular offers and make sense of any price list you come across.

Here’s your friendly, practical guide to choosing essential “other” small animal supplies with confidence—plus tips to spot real discounts, compare value, and avoid common pitfalls. Ready to build a better habitat without overspending? Let’s dive in.

What Counts as “Other” Small Animal Supplies?

“Other” is a catch-all category that tends to include everything that’s not food, primary bedding, or a full habitat. It’s also where you can find the clever add-ons that make care easier and enrichment richer. Think hideouts, tunnels, ramps, platforms, water bottles and bowls, hay racks, litter pans, chew toys, exercise wheels, harnesses, travel carriers, playpens, grooming tools, supplements, and cage-cleaning products. These are the items that shape your pet’s daily experience and keep their environment safe, tidy, and fun. The best part? Many of them are surprisingly affordable—especially when you compare multiple offers and pounce when prices dip.

Habitat Accessories: Ramps, Platforms, and Hideouts

Small animals love layered spaces. Adding platforms or ramps creates more usable area without increasing cage footprint. For hamsters and mice, low, gentle ramps and sturdy shelves are ideal. Rabbits and guinea pigs prefer ground-level hideouts with wide doors, while ferrets enjoy vertical climbing with hammocks or multi-level platforms. A hideout should be large enough for your pet to turn around comfortably—aim for a door opening at least 4 to 6 inches wide for small rodents, and 7 to 10 inches for larger pets like rabbits. Solid, chew-safe materials—untreated wood, hard plastic, or metal—last longer and are easier to clean.

Water Bottles, Bowls, and Feeders

Water matters. For hamsters and mice, a drip-proof bottle in the 6 to 12 fl oz range is plenty. Guinea pigs, chinchillas, and rabbits often do better with larger options—16 to 32 fl oz—especially if you have more than one pet. Look for stainless-steel spouts, tight seals, and easy-to-read volume markings. If your pet prefers bowls, pick a heavy, tip-resistant design with a wide base. For hay, a rack or bag keeps things tidy and reduces waste, and for pellets, a ceramic dish prevents messes better than plastic.

Bedding and Litter: Comfort and Cleanliness, Simplified

Great bedding and litter setups can reduce odor, improve comfort, and cut your cleaning time in half. This is one of those areas where quality really shows up in daily life. If you’ve ever struggled with smells after just a day or two, swapping materials—and adding a litter pan for species that can be trained, like rabbits and ferrets—can make a huge difference.

Paper Bedding vs. Aspen Shavings

As a rule of thumb, soft paper bedding is gentle, absorbent, and perfect for nesting. It’s ideal for hamsters, mice, and rats, and works well for guinea pigs and rabbits too. Aspen shavings are another good option—low dust, good absorption, and safe compared to aromatic softwoods which are best avoided. Cedar and some pine products can release strong oils that may irritate airways, so they’re not recommended. Aim for a bedding depth of at least 2 to 3 inches for small rodents to burrow, and 1 to 2 inches for larger pets that don’t dig as much.

Litter Pans for Rabbits and Ferrets

Rabbits and ferrets can be litter trained, which is a game changer for odor control. Look for high-back or corner pans that keep messes contained. Paper-based pelleted litter or aspen is a safe choice. Avoid clumping cat litters—they’re dusty and not ideal for small animals. Place hay near or over the litter pan for rabbits, since they love to munch while they do their business. Cleaning the pan every 1 to 2 days keeps smells at bay and your pet happy.

Enrichment: Toys, Chews, Tunnels, and Exercise

Enrichment is where the “other” category really shines. Small animals need mental and physical stimulation just like dogs and cats. The right mix of chewables, tunnels, interactive toys, and exercise gear prevents boredom and destructive habits.

Chew Toys That Actually Last

For most small animals—especially guinea pigs, rabbits, chinchillas, and rats—chewing is a must for dental health. Choose chew toys made from applewood, willow, untreated pine, or woven hay. Compressed hay blocks are great for heavy chewers. Avoid toys with mystery dyes or flimsy plastic parts. Mix textures: wood sticks, hay twists, pumice stones (for chinchillas), and chew-safe cardboard all add variety. Rotating toys weekly keeps interest high without endless spending.

Wheels, Balls, and Safer Exercise Options

For hamsters, mice, gerbils, and some rats, a wheel is essential. The golden rule: no wire rungs. A solid running surface prevents foot injuries. Dwarf hamsters generally need wheels around 8 to 10 inches in diameter; Syrian hamsters do best with 10 to 12 inches so their backs stay straight. Chinchillas require large, sturdy metal wheels—think 14 inches or more—mounted securely. Exercise balls are controversial for many species: ventilation and stress are concerns, especially for guinea pigs and rabbits. Safer alternatives include floor-time in a secure playpen, tunnels, and maze toys you can rearrange.

Grooming and Health Essentials

Grooming tools and basic health add-ons sit squarely in the “other” category and make routine care smooth. A little prep here saves future vet trips and keeps your buddy looking sharp.

Nail Clippers, Brushes, and Bathing

Small animal nail clippers or a mini guillotine-style trimmer lets you do quick snips when nails get too long. If you’re nervous, take small trims more often and keep styptic powder handy. Soft-bristle brushes work for rabbits and guinea pigs; slicker-style brushes can help with shedding. Most small animals shouldn’t be bathed unless absolutely necessary. Chinchillas need dust baths, not water—offer a dust bath several times a week in a sturdy bowl with proper chinchilla dust.

Supplements and Simple Remedies

Many guinea pigs benefit from vitamin C support; choose a stabilized chew or tablet rather than relying solely on drops in water. Probiotic treats can help after a stressful change, like a new diet or moving house. Always choose products designed for your species and check ingredients for sugar loads or artificial dyes. When in doubt, opt for a simpler formula with clearly labeled amounts per serving.

Travel, Carriers, and Outdoor Time

When you need to travel or offer safe outdoor enrichment, choosing the right gear matters. A carrier that’s too small, too dark, or poorly ventilated can stress your pet quickly. Likewise, using the wrong harness or pen can lead to escapes—never fun in a garden full of hiding spots.

Choosing a Travel Carrier

Pick a rigid, well-ventilated carrier that opens from the top and front for easy access. For hamsters and small rodents, a compact carrier with a secure latch is enough, but avoid cramped designs. For rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets, look for carriers roughly 18 to 24 inches long with a grippy floor and a washable mat. A shoulder strap helps when you’re juggling supplies. Bring a small water bottle adaptor or offer a moist veggie for hydration on short trips.

Harnesses, Leashes, and Playpens

Not every small pet should wear a harness. Some rabbits and ferrets tolerate H-style harnesses with a lightweight leash; guinea pigs usually prefer a secure playpen instead. Choose pens at least 2 to 3 feet high with tight spacing to prevent squeezes. For indoor floor time, add tunnels, fleece pads, and chew-safe toys. For garden time, ensure shade, supervision, and a dig-proof base—never leave small animals unattended outside.

Cleaning and Odor Control That Actually Works

Clean habitats are healthier and far more pleasant to live with. Odor control comes down to three things: absorbent bedding or litter, spot-cleaning, and safe, effective cleaning sprays.

Daily, Weekly, and Deep Clean Routines

Spot-clean daily by removing soiled bedding and wiping high-traffic areas. Refresh water and rinse dishes. Weekly, do a full bedding change and wipe the habitat with a pet-safe cleaner—enzyme sprays are excellent for breaking down urine smells. Once or twice a month, do a deep clean: remove accessories, scrub with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let everything dry before reassembly. Metal or hard plastic accessories hold up well to frequent cleaning; soft fabrics like hammocks should be machine washed on gentle.

Deodorizers and What to Avoid

Deodorizing powders can help, but use them sparingly and choose products labeled safe for small animals. Avoid strong perfumes and aerosols—they mask odors rather than eliminate them and can irritate sensitive airways. If smells persist, that’s a sign to reassess bedding depth, litter choice, or cage size, and to check that bottles aren’t leaking and causing damp spots.

Sizing and Materials: Get It Right the First Time

From wheels to hideouts, size matters. Small animals need room to move without bending their spines or squeezing through tight gaps. Materials matter too; they affect durability, safety, and how easy your life will be on cleaning day.

Right Sizes by Species

Hamsters: wheels around 8 to 12 inches depending on size; hideout door openings around 4 to 5 inches. Mice and gerbils: smaller wheels are okay for mice, but gerbils benefit from larger solid wheels and deep bedding. Rats: larger toys, 10 to 12 inch wheels for bigger boys, sturdy platforms. Guinea pigs: no wheels; instead, roomy hideouts with 7 to 9 inch doorways and wide tunnels. Rabbits: no wheels; choose large, ground-level hideaways, litter pans with high backs, and playpens at least 2 to 3 feet tall. Ferrets: multi-level accessories, hammocks, and high-back litter pans to contain corner habits. Chinchillas: big metal wheels (14 inches or more) and pumice chews.

Safe Materials That Last

Metal, hardwood, and thick, chew-resistant plastics survive eager teeth better than thin plastics. Untreated wood is perfect for chewables and hideouts, while stainless steel and ceramic are best for bowls. For bottles, choose BPA-free plastic or glass with a stainless spout. Fabrics like fleece are cozy for hammocks and liners but should be replaced at the first sign of fraying to prevent accidental ingestion.

How to Spot Real Deals and Compare Prices in the UK

Let’s talk savings. Prices on small animal supplies can vary widely between retailers. A smart way to shop is to compare offers side by side on a dedicated comparison site, so you can scan popular offers and skim a price list without clicking through dozens of tabs. Look beyond the headline discount—evaluate price per ounce, bundled extras, and long-term durability.

Timing, Multi-Packs, and Price-Per-Ounce Wins

Seasonal sales and weekend promos can be gold for restocking basics like bedding, litter, chews, and cleaning sprays. Multi-packs often deliver the best value—think three-pack water bottle replacement spouts or bulk chew bundles. For liquids like cleaners or supplements, calculate price per ounce to find the real bargain. It’s not unusual to find a higher sticker price that’s actually a lower cost per unit once you do the math.

Reviews, Warranties, and What to Read Carefully

Reviews can reveal hidden pros and cons: dripping water bottles, flimsy latches, wheels that wobble, or chew toys that crumble too fast. Scan for comments from owners of the same species you have. For pricier items—large wheels, carriers, playpens—favor products with clear warranties and replaceable parts. It’s also worth checking if accessories you’re buying are compatible with your current habitat (mounting brackets, bar spacing, and door sizes can be deal breakers).

Budget-Friendly Kits vs. Premium Picks

Starter kits are tempting because they promise an all-in-one solution. But not all kits are created equal, and sometimes the “included accessories” end up replaced within weeks. On the flip side, premium accessories can feel pricey, but they often outlive budget options several times over.

What Starter Kits Get Right—and Wrong

Good kits include a solid water bottle, a chew-resistant bowl, a hideout, and a basic toy. Where they fall short is wheel size, bedding quantity, or flimsy clip-on toys. If you’re eyeing a kit, compare the wheel diameter, check the bottle’s seal quality, and make sure the hideout actually fits your species. It’s better to buy a smaller kit with quality basics than a giant bundle where half the pieces won’t be used.

When Paying More Pays Off

Premium wheels with solid, quiet bearings; glass or heavy-duty bottles that never drip; stainless bowls; and robust playpens are worth it. They save time, reduce frustration, and are safer. The sweet spot is mixing: splurge on high-impact items and save on consumables like chews, liners, and some toys that you’ll rotate or replace often.

Practical Setups: Species-by-Species Quick Tips

Every small animal has quirks. Tailoring your “other” supplies to your pet’s habits is the fastest path to a clean, calm, and happy home.

Hamsters and Gerbils

Pick a solid wheel in the right size, deep bedding for burrowing, a sturdy hideout, and sand or dust for bathing (for species that need it). Add multi-chamber hideouts and cardboard mazes for enrichment. A drip-proof 8 to 12 fl oz bottle suits most setups.

Guinea Pigs

Skip wheels. Focus on roomy hideaways, tunnels, hay racks, and floor-time in a safe playpen. Two pigs? Double up on hideouts so no one gets pushed out. Choose a 16 to 32 fl oz bottle and a ceramic food dish for stability.

Rabbits

Go big on litter pans with high backs, chew-safe tunnels, and heavy bowls. A large carrier with top opening reduces stress. Add cardboard dig boxes and a secure exercise pen at least 2 to 3 feet high for supervised play.

Ferrets

Expect vertical living: hammocks, ramps, and multi-level platforms. High-back litter pans help with corner marking. Choose a well-ventilated carrier and enrichment toys that encourage tunneling and chasing.

Chinchillas

Prioritize a large, sturdy wheel (14 inches or more), pumice or mineral chews, and regular dust baths. Keep fabrics minimal to avoid chewing hazards, and use heavy ceramic dishes that won’t tip during zoomies.

Build a Shopping Plan That Saves Real Money

A smart shopping plan keeps your pet’s needs covered while your budget breathes easy. Start with a core checklist: water bottle, food bowl, hideout, toys, cleaner, bedding or litter, and any species-specific gear like a wheel or dust bath. Then, use a comparison site to scan popular offers in the UK, add your favorites to a watch list, and set a schedule for restocking staples during sales. Keep notes on which brands last, which toys your pet actually loves, and where the best price-per-unit deals appear. Over a few months, you’ll build a personalized price list that makes future purchases effortless.

Conclusion: Little Accessories, Big Impact

Small animal care is full of tiny decisions that add up—choose the right wheel and your hamster runs comfortably; pick a better bottle and the cage stays dry; swap bedding and your home smells fresher. That’s the quiet power of the “other” small animal supplies category. By understanding sizes, materials, and species needs—and by comparing prices across UK retailers through a dedicated comparison platform—you’ll stretch your budget and upgrade your pet’s daily life. Start with the high-impact essentials, mix in enrichment, and keep an eye on popular offers. Your pet won’t thank you in words, but you’ll see it in every contented nap and enthusiastic zoomie.