7 Exotic Small Animals You Can Keep As Pets

Are you tired of the same old traditional pets like dogs, cats, and fish? Do you want something unique and exotic to add to your family? Look no further! There are many small, unusual animals that can make great pets, but may require special care and attention. Here are 7 exotic small animals you can keep as pets.

The appeal of exotic pets is undeniable. They can be a great conversation starter, and their unusual characteristics can be quite fascinating. However, before bringing an exotic pet into your home, it's essential to do your research and understand their specific needs and requirements. Some exotic pets may require special permits, licenses, or veterinary care, so it's crucial to be prepared.

In this article, we'll explore 7 exotic small animals that can make great pets, including their characteristics, care requirements, and what makes them unique.

1. Sugar Gliders

Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials native to Australia and New Guinea. They are popular exotic pets due to their large eyes, soft fur, and ability to bond with their owners. Sugar gliders are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction. They are also nocturnal, so they sleep during the day and are active at night.

Sugar gliders require a specialized diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, fruits, and vegetables. They also need a large cage or enclosure with plenty of space to climb and play. Sugar gliders can live up to 12-15 years in captivity, so they are a long-term commitment.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Sugar Glider

Pros:

Social and affectionate
Intelligent and can be trained
Unique and exotic appearance

Cons:

Require a lot of attention and interaction
Nocturnal, so they are active at night
Require a specialized diet and large enclosure

2. Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are small, spiny mammals that are native to Africa and Eurasia. They are popular exotic pets due to their unique appearance and low-maintenance care. Hedgehogs are solitary animals and can be quite territorial, so they require a lot of space and a large enclosure.

Hedgehogs require a diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, fruits, and vegetables. They also need a wheel and other toys to keep them active and entertained. Hedgehogs can live up to 4-7 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Hedgehog

Pros:

Low-maintenance care
Unique and exotic appearance
Can be handled and socialized

Cons:

Solitary animals and may not be as social as other pets
Require a large enclosure and wheel
Can be prone to health problems if not cared for properly

3. Chinchillas

Chinchillas are small, fluffy rodents that are native to South America. They are popular exotic pets due to their soft fur and gentle nature. Chinchillas are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction. They are also sensitive to temperature and humidity, so they require a specialized enclosure.

Chinchillas require a diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, hay, and limited amounts of fruits and vegetables. They also need a large enclosure with plenty of space to climb and play. Chinchillas can live up to 15-20 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Chinchilla

Pros:

Soft and fluffy fur
Gentle and social nature
Can be handled and socialized

Cons:

Require a specialized enclosure and diet
Sensitive to temperature and humidity
Can be prone to health problems if not cared for properly

4. Ferrets

Ferrets are small, carnivorous mammals that are native to Europe. They are popular exotic pets due to their playful and curious nature. Ferrets are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction. They are also prone to health problems if not cared for properly.

Ferrets require a diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, meat, and limited amounts of fruits and vegetables. They also need a large enclosure with plenty of space to climb and play. Ferrets can live up to 7-9 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Ferret

Pros:

Playful and curious nature
Social and affectionate
Can be trained and handled

Cons:

Prone to health problems if not cared for properly
Require a specialized diet and enclosure
Can be mischievous and destructive if not provided with enough stimulation

5. Ball Pythons

Ball pythons are a species of non-venomous snakes that are native to Africa. They are popular exotic pets due to their docile nature and attractive patterns. Ball pythons are solitary animals and require a lot of space and a large enclosure.

Ball pythons require a diet that includes mice and rats. They also need a heat source and a hiding place. Ball pythons can live up to 20-30 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Ball Python

Pros:

Docile and non-venomous
Attractive patterns and colors
Can be handled and socialized

Cons:

Require a large enclosure and heat source
Solitary animals and may not be as social as other pets
Can be prone to health problems if not cared for properly

6. Green Iguanas

Green iguanas are a species of large, intelligent lizards that are native to Central and South America. They are popular exotic pets due to their attractive appearance and ability to be trained. Green iguanas are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction.

Green iguanas require a diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, fruits, and vegetables. They also need a large enclosure with plenty of space to climb and bask. Green iguanas can live up to 10-15 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Green Iguana

Pros:

Attractive appearance and color
Intelligent and can be trained
Social and affectionate

Cons:

Require a large enclosure and heat source
Can be prone to health problems if not cared for properly
Can grow up to 6 feet in length and require a lot of space

7. Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are a species of small, intelligent lizards that are native to Australia. They are popular exotic pets due to their attractive appearance and ability to be handled. Bearded dragons are social animals and require a lot of attention and interaction.

Bearded dragons require a diet that includes a commercial pellet diet, fruits, and vegetables. They also need a large enclosure with plenty of space to climb and bask. Bearded dragons can live up to 10-15 years in captivity.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Bearded Dragon

Pros:

Attractive appearance and color
Intelligent and can be handled
Social and affectionate

Cons:

Require a large enclosure and heat source
Can be prone to health problems if not cared for properly
Require a specialized diet and lighting

In conclusion, owning an exotic pet can be a rewarding and unique experience. However, it's essential to do your research and understand the specific needs and requirements of your pet. With proper care and attention, many exotic animals can thrive in captivity and provide companionship and joy to their owners.