Exotic pets can be a huge responsibility and, if you’re thinking about getting one of those to keep you company, I bet you’ve already consulted tenths of websites explaining all the do’s, don’ts and things you must consider before getting one. Now, I won’t be dealing with those today, as that is your part of the job, I am, however, going to give you some info on these following 7 creatures many people consider the best exotic pets ever:
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” he’ll leave laying around the house.
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 best 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.
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 any very active during the day and will let you touch it too.
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? Yup, 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.
Photo Credit: T vanDam
Soft as a plush toy, chinchilla is definitely one of the best exotic pets ever! These rodents like being the centre 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 lifestyle, 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!
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. Now, being a pretty nocturnal creature myself, I’d say this could be an advantage because you’ll have somebody to keep you company! 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, of course, gives you a chance to style your pet’s new “house”.
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. Now, that would sure come 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!
Top Photo Credit: Wm Jas