7 animals that aren’t worth raising if you don’t have time

Some animals can thrive under attentive care, but fall apart fast if their needs aren’t met. These aren’t “check on them when you remember” animals — they require a steady daily routine and plenty of hands-on management.

If you can’t commit the time every single day, you’ll end up with stressed animals, health problems, and wasted money. Before you bring these home, make sure your schedule actually matches the demands they’ll place on you.

Dairy Goats

Milking twice a day is only part of the work. Dairy goats also need daily feeding, watering, hoof checks, and clean bedding. They’re prone to parasites, so you’ll need to watch for early signs of trouble and keep their living space in top shape. Even missing one milking can cause serious health issues, so this isn’t a commitment you can cut corners on.

Horses

Horses demand daily feeding, fresh water, and exercise, along with regular grooming and hoof care. Stall cleaning is a constant chore, and skipping days leads to health problems fast. They also need consistent training and handling to stay well-mannered. If you don’t have time every single day, they’ll decline in both health and behavior.

Dairy Cows

Like goats, dairy cows have a strict milking schedule that can’t be skipped. They need clean water, quality feed, and clean stalls daily. Health monitoring is crucial, as cows are prone to mastitis and other issues that can escalate quickly. They also require large amounts of feed, which takes time to manage and store properly.

Rabbits

Rabbits need fresh water, hay, and pellets every day. Their cages require frequent cleaning to prevent ammonia buildup, which can make them sick. They also benefit from daily exercise outside their enclosure to prevent obesity and boredom. Neglecting even small parts of their routine can cause health problems in a matter of days.

Pigs

Pigs need fresh water and feed every day, and their pens can get messy quickly. Without regular cleaning, they’re prone to parasites and skin issues. They also require consistent handling to stay manageable, and bored pigs can become destructive in a hurry.

Turkeys

Turkeys need daily feeding, clean water, and secure shelter every night. They’re more disease-prone than chickens, so you’ll need to watch for early signs of illness. If you can’t monitor them closely, they can decline fast, especially in extreme weather.

Chickens

While chickens are easier than some animals, they still need daily care. Feed, water, egg collection, and coop checks all have to be done consistently. Skipping even a day can mean lost eggs, predator attacks, or health problems.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.