Small pet cremation: rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and reptiles
In short: Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds and reptiles can all be cremated, individually with ashes returned or communally. Prices depend mainly on weight, so ask the crematorium for the price for your pet.
Small pets can leave a very big gap. Losing a rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, bird or reptile is a real loss, and they deserve the same care as any other pet. Most pet crematoria cremate small pets, and you have the same choices.
Your options
- Individual cremation: your pet is cremated on their own and their ashes are returned to you. Because small pets produce only a small amount of ashes, ask the crematorium how they make sure you receive your own pet’s ashes, and what kind of container they use.
- Communal cremation: your pet is cremated with other animals and no ashes are returned.
Cost
Prices for individual cremation depend mainly on weight, so small pets are usually at the lower end of a crematorium’s price list. Prices vary, so ask for the price for your pet. Our price guide gives typical UK ranges and the extras to ask about.
Rabbits and guinea pigs
Blue Cross has guidance on saying goodbye to your small pet, including what to expect from your vet. If you have other rabbits or guinea pigs, they may also seem unsettled after a companion dies.
Birds and reptiles
Some crematoria handle birds and reptiles routinely and others less often. When you call, say what kind of pet you have so they can tell you how they’ll care for them.
Home burial
Some owners prefer to bury a small pet at home. The RSPCA says burial must be on land you own, away from water sources, in a grave at least 1.2 metres (four feet) deep, with your pet wrapped in a biodegradable material such as a natural fibre blanket (RSPCA: what to expect when saying goodbye to your pet). If you’re unsure what’s allowed where you live, ask your vet or your local council.