Cool Exotic Pets You Can Keep at Home

From spiky little hedgehogs to colorful reptiles, there’s a variety of unusual animals that can make great companions. However, these pets are exotic for a reason, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

Things to Consider Before Getting an Exotic Pet

Check the Laws

First things first: make sure it’s legal to own the exotic pet you’re interested in. Laws vary depending on where you live, so check local regulations to avoid any trouble down the line.

Commitment and Care

Exotic pets often have special needs when it comes to diet, habitat, and healthcare. Be prepared to invest time and resources to keep them happy and healthy.

Find the Right Vet

Not all veterinarians have experience with exotic animals. Make sure there’s a qualified vet in your area who can provide proper care.

Awesome Exotic Pets to Consider

1. Hedgehogs

These tiny, spiky creatures are undeniably adorable. Hedgehogs are generally quiet, solitary animals that can be a joy to care for.

• Lifespan: Around 4-6 years
• Diet: Special hedgehog food, supplemented with insects and occasional fruits
• Care Tips:
  • Provide a spacious cage with hiding spots
  • Include an exercise wheel to keep them active
  • Maintain a warm environment, around 75-80°F (24-27°C)

2. Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are friendly lizards known for their calm demeanor and ease of handling.

• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Diet: A mix of insects and vegetables
• Care Tips:
  • Set up a terrarium with proper lighting and heating
  • Include basking spots and hiding areas
  • Handle them gently to build trust

3. Sugar Gliders

These tiny marsupials are social and energetic, making them entertaining pets.

• Lifespan: 10-12 years
• Diet: Specialized diet including fruits, vegetables, and protein sources
• Care Tips:
  • They need a tall cage with room to climb and glide
  • Since they’re social, it’s best to keep them in pairs
  • They require regular interaction to stay tame

4. Ball Pythons

If you’re into snakes, ball pythons are a popular choice for their docile nature and manageable size.

• Lifespan: 20-30 years
• Diet: Small rodents like mice or rats
• Care Tips:
  • Provide a secure enclosure with proper humidity and temperature
  • Include hiding spots to help them feel safe
  • Handle them regularly to maintain their docility

5. Fennec Foxes

With their enormous ears and playful behavior, fennec foxes are truly unique pets.

• Lifespan: Up to 14 years
• Diet: High-quality dog food supplemented with fruits and vegetables
• Care Tips:
  • They need plenty of space to run and play
  • Fennec foxes are energetic and can be mischievous
  • They may not be legal in all areas, so double-check regulations

6. Tarantulas

For the arachnid enthusiasts, tarantulas can be low-maintenance and fascinating to observe.

• Lifespan: Females can live up to 20 years; males have shorter lifespans
• Diet: Insects like crickets and mealworms
• Care Tips:
  • Keep them in a secure terrarium with appropriate substrate
  • Avoid handling them frequently; they’re better as display pets
  • Be cautious if you’re allergic to spider bites

7. Pygmy Goats

If you have some outdoor space, pygmy goats can be delightful companions.

• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Diet: Hay, goat feed, and access to pasture
• Care Tips:
  • They need a secure outdoor enclosure with shelter
  • Goats are social, so consider keeping more than one
  • Check local zoning laws to ensure they’re allowed

8. Axolotls

Also known as “walking fish,” axolotls are aquatic salamanders that stay in their larval stage their whole life.

• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Diet: Worms, small fish, and specialized pellets
• Care Tips:
  • Keep them in an aquarium with clean, cool water
  • Avoid using gravel they could swallow; use sand or a bare bottom
  • Handle them minimally to reduce stress

9. Chinchillas

With their super-soft fur and playful nature, chinchillas make charming pets.

• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Diet: High-quality chinchilla pellets and hay
• Care Tips:
  • Provide a large cage with levels for climbing
  • They need dust baths to keep their fur clean
  • Chinchillas are sensitive to heat; keep them in a cool environment

10. Kinkajous

These nocturnal mammals are curious and have a prehensile tail, which makes them quite intriguing.

• Lifespan: Up to 25 years
• Diet: Fruits, especially bananas, and nectar
• Care Tips:
  • They require a large enclosure and enrichment toys
  • Being nocturnal, they might not match your sleep schedule
  • Owning a kinkajou may require a special permit

Final Thoughts

Owning an exotic pet can be an amazing experience, but it’s important to do thorough research and be fully prepared for the commitment. Always make sure you’re providing the best possible care, and that you’re following all local laws and regulations. With the right approach, you can enjoy the company of a truly unique animal companion.