7 Most Popular Exotic Pets to Keep You Company

1. Sugar Gliders

Photo Credit: Sandra Elford

These cuddly, tiny creatures, also known as pocket pets, will bring joy to your life for years to come. Sugar Gliders are very loyal, playful, and can be taught many tricks, and that's what makes them one of the best exotic pets for both singles and families with older kids. Bad news? Well, they can't be house-broken, so if you have your mind set on this pet, you will have to learn to tolerate those "little surprises" they'll leave laying around the house. If you are worried about odor, you might want to look into ferrets instead.

2. Ferrets

Photo Credit: Stacy Lynn Baum

If you don't mind the odor which can get a bit unpleasant and the fact that your pet probably won't live more than 8 years, definitely add ferrets to your list of popular exotic pets. This interesting animal will definitely keep you busy as it likes to play, chew things, and even steal, plus you'll find it very easy to litter train, just like any other "normal" pet. For more information on ferret care, the American Ferret Association is an excellent resource.

3. Bearded Dragons

Photo Credit: Kingdom Animalia

These odd-looking reptiles are a very popular house pet these days, so if you like reptiles, you'll definitely find this one worth checking out. Bearded dragons are not only famous for their bright colors and poufy beard-like throat but for their playfulness too. Yup, this reptile is actually very active during the day and will let you touch it, making it one of the most popular exotic pets for beginners. Unlike hermit crabs, they need plenty of space and specific heating requirements.

4. Gerbils

Photo Credit: katgriceuk

These cute, furry mammals are so popular, they are not even considered "exotic" anymore! Would you believe if I told you these cuties were originally used in laboratories? That's so sad, I know! But as you can see, not even lab staff was able to resist their fluffiness, comically large rear feet, and the ability to look totally cute while spending most of their time standing upright, almost like humans. If you're thinking about getting a gerbil you better make it two, as they really hate being alone. Now, that may sound like too much to handle, but don't worry, gerbils are very low maintenance. They don't take up a lot of space, and they eat mostly nut and seed mixtures available in any well-stocked pet shop, making them a great option if you want to enrich your lifestyle with a furry friend.

5. Chinchillas

Photo Credit: T vanDam

Soft as a plush toy, the chinchilla is definitely one of the best exotic pets ever! These rodents like being the center of attention and can get pretty lonely if their beloved doesn't give them the love and attention they need. So, if you have a busy schedule, it's better to get two of them to keep each other company. Chinchillas love to play and are one of those animals who grow attached to their owner very quickly, and if you make sure your pet receives the best of care, it will keep you company for up to 20 years!

6. Hermit Crab

Photo Credit: el lucero

These crustaceans are very fun to watch and easy to care for, although you should be very careful of where you keep them as they like to climb and explore. Hermit crabs are nocturnal, which means there won't be a lot of action during the day. Being a pretty nocturnal creature myself, I'd say this could be an advantage because you'll have somebody to keep you company at night! Fun fact: These are not your regular, everyday crabs, have that in mind. They like to inhabit empty shells and carry them around like snails, which gives you a chance to style your pet's new "house." For tips on shell selection and crab habitats, the Land Hermit Crab Owners Society is a must-read.

7. Fennec Foxes

Photo Credit: wAlanb

Now, if you ask me, having a pet fox is definitely too much, but since that goes for my beloved python snakes too, I'll just keep my big mouth shut and keep writing about these foxes and reasons for which people choose to have them as pets. One of the first and the cutest things you'll notice on this pet are its unusually long, funny, Yoda-like ears, and if that alone is not enough to convince you to get it, you'll be interested to know these foxes are easily tamed and even leash trained. That would sure come in handy because these animals like a lot of action!

Now, tell me, which ones of these could make the best exotic pets for you and your family? I personally like them, but if I had to choose only one from this list, it will definitely be a sugar glider! I've never seen one, and I don't even know if they are legal and available in Europe, but if I ever find one, I'm definitely getting it!