10 Unique Pets You Should Consider Adopting

Have you ever considered adopting a non-traditional pet? Exotic pets can bring much excitement and happiness into your life. Like other animals, the amount of care needed varies, but the effort is worth it!

Here are 10 unique pets you should consider becoming your next family member.

1. Stick insects

I’ve never thought of insects as pets before, but this little guy may change my mind. Stick insects are interesting to watch and take care of. According to National Geographic, there are approximately 3,000 stick bug species, but only a few are reared as pets. They live in enclosures and eat leaves. Depending on what species you get is how easy or difficult they are to care for.

2. Scorpions

If you like arachnids and are okay with never holding your pet, a scorpion may be a great fit for you. While they are not cuddly, they are interesting to observe. It is important to know what species of scorpion you have in order to give the proper care needed. Scorpions will sting, so immediate care after is necessary. Children should not be allowed around scorpions.

3. Hedgehog

Although hedgehogs look like dangerous balls of spikes, they can be great pets. Their quills are prickly but rarely cause harm. The African pygmy hedgehog is one of the most common types sold as pets. They are fairly easy to care for and can live up to ten years. However, they may not be suitable as pets for children. If you love staying up all night, this nocturnal and active mammal could be a great pet for you. Make sure they are legal in your state using this tool.

4. Chipmunk

A type of small squirrel, chipmunks can make fantastic pets. They are energetic, curious, and love to climb. Because of their activity, they should live in a large enclosure. If they are trained while young, they can respond to names and food. They are also very social creatures, but they aren’t ones to cuddle up to their owner and may prefer to sit on your shoulder. Just make sure to check with your state to make sure you can legally own one as a pet before bringing one into your home!

5. Sugar gliders

Sugar gliders are adorable marsupials who got their name from their love of sweet foods. They bond very closely to their family, including other pets. Sugar gliders are also nocturnal by nature but can be trained according to your schedule. Because they are very social, it is ideal to have at least two sugar gliders or interact with them regularly or they may become depressed. Make sure your state isn’t one of the five that makes it illegal to have sugar gliders as pets.

6. Capybara

Known to be intelligent and unique, capybaras can be great pets. As large pets, they can definitely take center stage in your home. However, they are high-maintenance pets. Capybaras have specific diets, mainly high-quality grass hay and guinea pig pellets. They should live with at least one other capybara; otherwise they may become stressed and unable to communicate. They also love to swim, so there should be a pool of water accessible at all times. You can own one in Texas or Pennsylvania without a permit.

7. Pygmy Goats

Pygmy goats are popular to raise because of their small size and distinct personalities. They are friendly and extremely social, so it is best to have more than one or have other pets they can socialize with. They are also loud when demanding or expressing displeasure. Because they can become obese, it is best to stick with the recommended diet of grass hay and grain, with fruits and vegetables as treats. Pygmy goats should also be taken to the veterinarian and wormed several times a year.

8. Skunks

Skunks?! As pets?! Wild skunks aren’t good pets, but domesticated ones are known to be smart and loving.  Their scent glands are removed at a young age so they can’t spray you. However, they are high-maintenance and need a lot of care. They can be trained to use a litter box but it can be difficult. They need a variety of foods in order to have a balanced diet. Active and curious, they love getting into anything they can. They must not be left outside. They have no sense of direction and can get lost very easily. Before bringing a pet skunk into your home, call your state office to determine if a permit is required.

9. Axolotl

The axolotl is one of the cutest amphibians I have ever seen! They are relatively easy to care for. Axolotl spend their whole lives in water and can get large. It is very important to have the best aquarium environment or the axolotl could become sick. It is best to have its own aquarium as other aquatic creatures could harm them or vice versa.

10. Bearded dragon

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptiles to have. They make excellent pets for families who want to raise a reptile for the first time and are fairly easy to care for. They are friendly and like to be held. Getting enough UV light and humidity is essential for a bearded dragon’s health. Bearded dragons like to be out during the day and soak up the sun’s rays. They are also omnivores, so they can eat a variety of insects and plants.

These unique, exotic animals can become amazing pets. As with all animals, research about what kind of care and procedures to take before obtaining one, as well as making sure it is legal where you live.

Thinking of getting a unique pet? Let us know in the comments!