10 of the Most Unusual Pets You Won't Believe People Have
Everyone is familiar with the most common household pets including dogs; cats and hamsters. However, there are many animals that are considered unusual when kept as pets. Each one comes with its own list of pros and cons and it’s important to remember that these animals are wild and are sometimes difficult to tame. Choosing an exotic pet should be taken into more consideration than simply how adorable they are.
10. Boa Constrictors
This is a unique pet as they are found creepy by a great deal of society. However, Boa Constrictors are considered “the friendly large snake”.
Their size is their worst feature. They require a lot of space with a lot of tank to grow into. Their diet is mainly small rodents.
They are not legal in every state so be sure to check before buying.
9. Tarantula
Most giant spiders can be kept as pets. The Mexican red knee is one of the most popular choices.
They mainly feed on live insects and would make a great pet for those who find them more fascinating than creepy.
They may not please your house guests or your house flies but as long as you enjoy its company then why not own a Tarantula.
8. Sugar Gliders
Sugar Gliders can be cuddly little creatures. They are loyal, playful, and can learn tricks. Sugar Gliders are great exotic pets for families with children or even people who live alone.
Sugar Gliders are part of the marsupial family and carry their young in their pouch.
They love to eat nectar, the sap of eucalyptus, and fruit. Sometimes they enjoy insects and small rodents. They are nocturnal and require special care but, they make great exotic pets.
7. Pygmy Goat
Pygmy Goats are great animals, however they are best kept outside. Their natural instinct is to graze and may find your household items grazing material. They can be house trained but, their natural instinct is to go wherever and whenever they want.
Goats in general are rather destructive animals and can climb most anything especially kitchen tables and counters.
Goats like to abide by the buddy system and would be happiest in a herd. This is yet another reason they may be better as outdoor pets. They are mostly gentle and calm animals that can be great around children.
6. Spotted Genet
The Spotted Genet is originally from Africa and is very active and high strung. These are very independent animals and enjoy being the only pet in the house.
They are an unusual pet that may not be legal in your state.
Genets are not usually cuddly pets and don’t do well in groups, however they have been known to get along with dogs and cats if they have grown up with them. They can also be litter or newspaper trained with the help of their crate.
5. Skunk
Skunks may have a bad reputation for being garbage pickers or the stinkers of the wildlife category. However, they seem to make wonderful pets.
When people decide to have skunks as pets they have their scent glands removed to avoid their kids, family members or other pets being “skunked”.
Skunks are notorious for being playful, stubborn, active and especially curious! They are interested in everything you do and will go through everything you own. Skunks are healthy eaters and love vegetables for dinner. They can be litter trained and will need to be in a home that is “escape proof”.
4. Hedgehog
Incredibly friendly and affectionate, the Hedgehog can make a great low maintenance pet. While they are in the baby stage, a Hedgehog requires a lot of attention. They are generally nocturnal and will be perfect for those that are night owls. If you’re not then you may want to consider a different exotic pet.
The Hedgehog is a generally quiet pet. They may squeak on their running wheel or rearrange their cage, both of which won’t disturb your neighbors. They are the perfect pet for people with pet allergies because they don’t have dander like cats or dogs do.
Hedgehogs, like Porcupines, have spikes and can be prickly. When you’re first getting used to your Hedgie you will get poked, but once you form a bond they can be rather cuddly!
3. Miniature Donkey
This may not seem like a possible pet, but some people are finding them to be great companions. The Miniature Donkey doesn’t do well alone, and therefore would be happier with another. They are generally mellow and good with kids.
Similar to dogs, they genuinely care about their families and are very loyal to them. One of their most appealing qualities is that they are intellectually more superior to the other farm animals.
They are most at home in the comfort of their back yards and outdoor shelters. They are not great “indoor” pets since they may chew the furniture. However, they are sweet and loyal and great with kids. Oddly, the Miniature Donkey would make a great exotic pet.
2. Capybara
The Capybara is best known as being the largest rodent, but there are a lot of other things about them that make them an appealing companion. First of all, they are extremely unique! How many people do you know have a Capybara in their house?
However, they are unique for a reason. They are illegal to have as pets in some states, so check your state laws before bringing one home. The Capybara is generally a pack animal, so choosing to adopt only one may become a problem. In order to keep your Capybaras happy, you would need to adopt two or more.
They are also semi-aquatic animals and therefore they need to be around plenty of water at all times. The Capybara would also be better as an outdoor pet considering they chew on everything in sight. The Capybara isn’t recommended as a household pet.
1. The Fennec Fox
Many people may not even consider a fox to be a potential companion, but the Fennec Fox is becoming just that! This type of fox usually lives in the desert, so if your home is located in the warmer climate states the Fennec Fox will feel right at home.
The Fennec Fox would fit perfectly in an apartment or small house because of its naturally small size. When they are fully grown, the Fennec Fox is no bigger than a Chihuahua. They are similar to cats in the way that they can be litter trained. They are playful and require a lot of exercise which can be easily accomplished with a leash and harness.
In the wild, the Fennec Fox dines on insects and small animals. They use their big ears to be able to easily locate the insects or small animals they wish to eat. This is an animal that doesn’t rely on water for hydration, however when having them as a pet make sure to keep a bowl of fresh and clean water for the fox in case it wants it. The Fennec Fox is generally very friendly and isn't a threat to anyone. The Fennec Fox would make a unique, but rather amazing pet.
