Virtually all PCPs are meant to launch their projectiles in the 850-950fps range. If the gun is shooting projectiles faster than 1000fps, the gun either needs to have its power turned down through releasing less or lower psi per shot or a heavier projectile needs to be used.

A suppressor is also a must. The blast of air can be as loud as a firearm shot.

On a spring or piston gun you have to be careful. Shooting a projectile that is too light or too heavy with cause the gun to react like a dry fired compound bow and possibly damage the gun. PCPs aren’t damaged by projectile weight. You simply get better performance putting your intended projectile in the 900fps range.

What would you recommend as far as brand & model for a .25 cal used for light animal control?

Avenger by Air Venturi, Marauder by Benjamin, Gauntlet by Umarex.

We have all three in the house, no real complaints with any of them, just basic PCP's that will get the job done. Accurate enough, inexpensive enough. These are the 2 main critter suppression rigs right now, my Marauder, .25cal, 31gr pellet at 875fps, night vision scope. Has accounted for about 30 raccoons so far. The second is my wife's .25 cal Avenger, she shoots a 25gr pellet, right at 900fps, suppressed, untold number of squirrels, rabbits, jays, etc. and lots of steel. LOL  We use a Joe Brancato Tiger Shark tank and valve assembly, local(ish) paintball facility fills us to 300Bar for $5. Need to refill the tank 2-4 times a year. We have a floor pump for back up. It isn't a lot of fun to pump to +3000 psi, but it can, and has been, done.