{"id":10434,"date":"2023-12-12T11:10:13","date_gmt":"2023-12-12T10:10:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/?p=10434"},"modified":"2023-12-12T11:10:13","modified_gmt":"2023-12-12T10:10:13","slug":"what-were-the-most-common-pets-in-ancient-rome","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.learnancientrome.com\/what-were-the-most-common-pets-in-ancient-rome\/","title":{"rendered":"What Were The Most Common Pets In Ancient Rome"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Pets have been kept as companions throughout history. In Ancient Rome, around 15-20 million people kept a variety of animals as pets. These pets included birds, rodents, reptiles, and cats. Different animals had different meanings, and the culture surrounding pet-keeping varied with the culture and class of the owner. <\/p>\n

In Ancient Rome, birds were the most popular pet. Many birds were kept as pets – ranging from owls to parrots, starlings to thrushes, magpies to pheasants. Peacocks were popular for their colorful feathers, and Egyptians usually kept aviary birds such as cranes, quails and ducks. Poultry were kept as well, and were used both as pets and as a food supply. <\/p>\n

Rodents were also kept as pets. Rats and mice were kept as pets, and were trained to perform tricks and engage in play. They were also often sold as food, and kept as pets due to their playful and affectionate behavior. Rabbits were also kept as pets in Rome, particularly by wealthier citizens. <\/p>\n

Reptiles were also popular pets in Ancient Rome. Snakes and lizards were kept as status symbols, as well as for their perceived magical powers. Turtles were popular since they were thought to have medicinal benefits. Turtles were often kept in terrariums, while snakes and lizards were kept in custom-made cages. <\/p>\n