You're that one person who doesn't want to own a dog or a cat, but you also want a pet that is cute a cuddly? Well, you've come to the right place. You don't need to go to the zoo to see wild animal anymore! Exotic pets are becoming more popular, and you may have even seen a fox or two lurking around in you own neighborhood. People are starting to want a pet that is different and unique, something that nobody else owns. If you're one of those people who wants a cute, unique pet, then you may want to check these nine cuties out.
Always be careful when considering purchasing an exotic pet however, as some states and countries don't allow you to own one of these without a permit or not at all. Also, unlike domesticated animals, some of these animals are tamed, which means that they may still have their wild animal instincts within them. Always do your research before purchasing an exotic animal.
Fennec foxes
I know what you’re thinking: keeping a small, desert-dwelling fox in the confines of your home cannot be a good idea. However, fennecs are one of the most popular exotic animals, as they are small, require minimal maintenance and thrive with a persistent owner. Did I also mention that they are adorable?
These animals can be litter box trained and their droppings tend to be dry as they conserve water. They come from the desert, after all. You should keep them in a small, fenced in space in order to keep them under control. Let them out to play daily.
As every fennec is different, some do well with other pets while others do not and you should always do your research before purchasing one.
There are also similar animals, such as red foxes, arctic foxes, and bat-eared foxes who also make good pets if you are looking to bring something wild into your home. However, you have to be dedicated if you plan on owning ANY fox. I will go into more detail with a separate myTake.
Chinchillas
These are sooooooo cute! And they are available in most commercial pet stores. Hailing from the high mountains of South America, chinchillas have made their way into the hearts of many, and they are pretty low maintenance compared to other small rodents, such as bunnies.
These cuties require a small, caged enclosure complete with a dust bath...you heard right. Their fur is the softest of any animal in the animal kingdom and has lots of oils in it. These oils help protect them from the harsh environment, and getting them wet can strip their fur of these oils.
Despite this though, chinchillas are quiet animals and hardly make any sound, so you can have some peace and quiet on your part.
Hedgehogs
These spiky creatures started to increase in popularity with the rise of Sonic the hedgehog. Many mistake them for porcupines, as both rodents have quills, but in the hedgehog's case, they only stiffen their quills when they feel threatened. They can be comparable to rubber bristles.
Other then the quills, hedgehogs are humble and mind-your-own-business animals, and they are comparable in the cost to care for them with hamsters. Just be aware that you have to feed them insects, as they consume bugs on the daily. If you are squeamish when it comes to bugs then the hedgehog may not be the right pet for you.
Despite their sensitivity to their surroundings, hedgehogs are generally shy creatures. Expect to bond with your beloved hedgehog like you would an infant. Isn't that just sweet?
Sugar gliders
Also called flying squirrels, these cuties are one of the most adorable pets you could own. They have a boundless supply of enjoy and enjoy high places. However, you need a permit if you want to own one, as they can be hard to come by.
Sugar gliders require fresh fruits and nuts for healthy function. Their high metabolism requires a diet of nutrient-rich foods such as these. You could even go to the super market and buy fruits and nuts to feed the little guys. They even love to snack of sunflower seeds (not the ranch kind however).
The sugar glider makes a wonderful pet, but if you really want to see them glide, let them climb up high and watch them fly from place-to-place.
Kinkajou
As you already may know, Paris Hilton owns one of these bad boys. This is one of the reasons these cuties have risen in popularity.
Part of the raccoon family, these fascinating mammals come from the rainforests of Central and South Africa. The Kinkajou has a lifespan of 20-25 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 41 years. Also known as “honeybears”, they are incredibly affectionate and get along marvelously with humans. Kinkajous are becoming more popular as an exotic pet due to their playful and docile demeanor. Many describe a Kinkajou as having a baby bear cub face with an otter body.
Skunks
Wild skunks are known to be rather smelly, but this is rarely the case with domesticated skunks, as they have the glands that produce the stench removed. Getting your hands on a skunk can be tough as they require a permit and are only legal in certain countries and states.
Skunk pets are capable of living indoors with human beings just as cats and dogs do, but tend to be rare because of these restrictive laws. They are more popular in European countries.
Skunks as pets are what you make out of them. By the time they get to nine to ten months of age, they will have settled into habits and attained a specific personality. The better you care for your skunk the better and more tolerant it will be to its owners, strangers as well as other pets.
Spotted genet
That the hell is a genet you may ask? Well, the first thing you may notice is that it resembles a house cat. Don't be mistaken. Hailing from Africa, they are one of the continents less known critters and are rising in popularity as an exotic pet.
Genets are independent creatures and aren't too found of human companionship if not raised from a young age. However, despite this they are one of the rather easy animals to care for. They are omnivorous and enjoy a diet of fruits, vegetables, and insects. You should also invest in a small enclosure outside if you plan on owning one so that it does not tear up your new couch.
Also be gentle when handling your genet as they are known to nip while playing or if they feel threatened. Despite this they are rather cute and can make a good addition to the family if you are patient with them.
Wallaby
Not quite as big as a Kangaroo, the wallaby is much smaller, and can grow up to 41 inches and weigh close to 53 pounds. They love the outdoors and are extremely social. Many feel that wallabies are great exotic pets since they are kept outside and can be cute and cuddly as well. They aren’t your typical outside pet… basically a normal backyard isn’t going to cut it for a Wallaby. They need lots of outdoor room, as they move around at high speeds, and should be kept in a pen with shelter. Another thing to consider- you will need fencing at least 5 feet high, because Wallabies are cousins to the Kangaroo, which brings fast and high jumping.
Squirrel monkey
From the tropical forests of Central and South America, the Squirrel Monkey may be the most adorable exotic pet of them all. They usually weigh only about 2 pounds, and are lots of fun, playful and energetic. The Squirrel Monkey is highly intelligent, social and super affectionate, making them popular with exotic animal owners. They have the largest brain out of all primates, so house-training should come easy to these little cuties.
Be careful though, Squirrel Monkeys spread their urine on their feet, hands, and sometimes all over their body to help mark their path. The Squirrel Monkey can cost you upwards of $8,000 for a baby, and be prepared to spend lots of time and attention as they demand it almost constantly. They are basically like owning a human baby, just without the birthing process.
Will you be purchasing an exotic animal? Which is your favorite? Thanks for reading and stay wild! :)
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