1.
small animal
A general term for small-sized animals, typically referring to hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and similar creatures. Commonly used in pet shops and veterinary contexts.
小動物を飼いたい。
I want to keep a small animal as a pet.
ペットショップの小動物コーナーでハムスターを見た。
I saw hamsters in the small animal section of the pet shop.
この動物病院は犬や猫だけでなく、小動物の診察も行っている。
This veterinary clinic treats not only dogs and cats, but also small animals.
USAGE:
Commonly seen in pet shops, veterinary clinics, and animal care contexts. The category typically includes hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and sometimes small birds and reptiles. Dogs and cats are usually classified separately, even small breeds.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 小動物を飼う (keep a small animal)
- 小動物コーナー (small animal section)
- 小動物用 (for small animals)
- 小動物専門 (specializing in small animals)