Owning a pet isn't easy. But these species can make it a little easier

Pet ownership is a bond that can last a lifetime and studies proved caring for a small being can improve one's mental health, but not every pet is suitable for everyone.

Preparing to adopt or buy a pet takes time and research to ensure the home will be perfect for the animal. That means if a family lives a busy life, it's best to welcome an animal that doesn't require around-the-clock care. If it's a communal space, the animal should also fit the community's policies.

According to the National Institutes of Health, humans interacting with pets have lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and blood pressure.

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What pets are easy to take care of?

Easy, or low-maintenance, pets still require the care more complex animals would need, the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine said in a blog post. That includes regular veterinary visits, cleanings, feeding and a safe environment for them to roam.

"You may need to invest in such living environments as aquariums, cages, terrariums, or hutches, and pick up any specialized food," the veterinary school said. "Many smaller animals need space to run around in, foliage to hide beneath, shavings to burrow into, and toys to play with."

Animals that aren't complicated to care for are rodents like gerbils, hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs and rabbits. Other recommended pets are fish, reptiles, spiders and amphibians.

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While some species are considered easy to have, some like rodents, rabbits, dogs and cats require daily attention.

If a person is new to pet ownership and lives in an apartment complex, some animals make great companions.

What pets are best for apartments?

The joy of living in a communal space is being close to neighbors. The downside is noise travels in those close spaces and can be exacerbated by thin walls.

Picking the right pet boils down to a person's lifestyle, how the pet socializes and pet policies. Apartment-hunting website Apartments.com said hermit crabs, snakes, rodents, fish and cats adapt well to apartment life. For dogs, the website recommends breeds that don't shed too often, aren't vocal, can tolerate being alone, need moderate exercise and are friendly to people.

"Potential pup parents must understand that dogs are social creatures that require obedience training, exercise, and mental stimulation," the website said. "They need adequate walks around the community or to be taken to the dog park to socialize and burn off energy."

How much does it cost to own a pet?

Cost isn't the same across the board as each animal has different needs. Insurance company Geico estimated the following initial and annual costs:

• Hermit crabs are around $80 to start, then $180 annually

• Gerbils and hamsters are $180 to start, then $150 annually

• Fish are $160 initially, then $520 annually

• Leopard geckos are $149 to start, then $290 annually

• Most birds are $295 initially, then $185 annually

• Cats are about $1,200 to start, then $800 per year

• Dogs are about $1,500 to start, then about $1,500 per year

Pet ownership can be affordable with the right pet insurance coverage. On average, people pay $55 per month for an unlimited accident and illness plan for a dog, $47 per month for cats. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association, 6.25 million pets were insured in North America in 2023.

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Contact reporter Krystal Nurse at knurse@USATODAY.com. Follow her on X @KrystalRNurse, and on BlueSky @krystalrnuse.bsky.social.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What pets are easy to care for? Here's some tips you should consider