SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/small-which-gets-vaccines

Which of these pets needs routine vaccines?

The ferret. Guinea pigs and rats have none.

Start playing free

  1. Guinea pig
  2. Ferret ✔
  3. Rat

Why: Ferrets need yearly rabies and canine distemper shots. Guinea pigs do not need vaccinations, and there are no vaccines for rats or other small rodents. All of them still need a yearly checkup with a vet who knows the species.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck recommends a yearly checkup for guinea pigs with a vet experienced with them.

The dad joke
What is a ferret's favorite appointment? A well-weasel visit.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Ferret. Ferrets need yearly rabies and canine distemper shots. Guinea pigs do not need vaccinations, and there are no vaccines for rats or other small rodents. All of them still need a yearly checkup with a vet who knows the species.

  1. Routine Care of Guinea Pigs, Merck Veterinary Manual www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/guinea-pigs/routine-care-of-guinea-pigs
    Guinea pigs don't need vaccinations.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Routine Health Care of Rats, Merck Veterinary Manual www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/rats/routine-health-care-of-rats
    There are currently no vaccines for rats or other small rodents.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. Routine Health Care for Ferrets, Merck Veterinary Manual www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/ferrets/routine-health-care-for-ferrets
    Ferrets should be vaccinated annually against rabies and canine distemper.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Small PetsWhy do pet ferrets get a yearly canine distemper vaccine?Small PetsPer Merck, how old should a ferret be for its first rabies shot?Small PetsWhich small pet is mostly awake during the day, so kids can handle it without waking it?

That's stuff everyone should know.