Small animals are the fifth most American’s popular house pet after Birds in the Americas Favorite Pet list. Around 6.2 million U.S. households own small animals as pet. Around 10% of households own small animals, which means approximately 13.4 million Americans have a small animal pet. Basic information about small animals -American’s favorite house pet : Small animal pets come in a variety of sizes and colors. Depending on the species, they can live anywhere from 2 to 10 years. Hamsters only live for a few years, while others, like Rabbits, can live for 10 years or more. Small animal pets can range from a few inches to a few feet. That’s why small animal pets like hamsters can be kept in small cages, while others, such as rabbits, need more giant cells. Food: Pellets, Seeds, Fruits, Vegetables, and Hay.