Strange Animals that Make Great Family Pets

If you're tired of the same old cats and dogs, why not consider a more unconventional pet for your family? Not only will these unique creatures make great conversation starters, but they can also provide endless entertainment and companionship. In this article, we'll introduce you to some strange animals that make fantastic family pets, provided you're willing to give them the love, care, and attention they need. So, buckle up and get ready to meet your new potential furry (or scaly) friend!

Hedgehogs

These adorable, spiky little critters may look intimidating at first, but they're actually quite friendly and low-maintenance. Native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, hedgehogs are nocturnal insectivores that have become increasingly popular as pets in recent years. With their curious nature and endearing appearance, it's no wonder they've captured the hearts of many.

One of the main advantages of having a hedgehog as a pet is their relatively small size, which makes them suitable for families with limited space. They're also quiet animals, so you won't have to worry about any noisy disturbances. Additionally, hedgehogs are known to be hypoallergenic, making them a great option for those with allergies to more common pets like cats and dogs.

While hedgehogs are generally low-maintenance pets, they do require a bit of special care. Their enclosure should be spacious and well-ventilated, with a hiding spot for them to retreat to during the day. They'll also need a balanced diet consisting mainly of high-quality cat food, insects, and occasional fruits and vegetables. Be sure to provide a clean environment, regular nail trims, and supervised exercise outside of their enclosure to keep them happy and healthy. Keep in mind that hedgehogs are illegal in some areas, so be sure to check your local laws before bringing one into your home.

Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons, native to Australia, are friendly and docile reptiles that have gained popularity as family pets. With their unique appearance, inquisitive nature, and relatively easy care requirements, it's no wonder these lizards are so well-loved among reptile enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Bearded dragons are known for their calm and gentle temperament, making them great companions for families with children. They are also relatively low-maintenance compared to other reptiles, as they do not require a high level of humidity in their enclosure. Additionally, bearded dragons can be quite interactive and enjoy being handled, which can be a rewarding experience for pet owners.

To properly care for a bearded dragon, you'll need to set up an appropriate enclosure with a heat source and UVB lighting to mimic their natural habitat. They'll also require a varied diet of insects, vegetables, and occasional fruits. It's essential to provide clean water and maintain a clean living space to prevent health issues.

Bearded dragons can grow up to 2 feet in length, so it's important to ensure that their enclosure is spacious enough to accommodate their size. Regular handling and socialization are also crucial to keep your bearded dragon happy and well-adjusted. Be sure to consult a reptile specialist or veterinarian for specific care instructions and routine check-ups to monitor your bearded dragon's health.

Axolotls

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, are aquatic salamanders native to Mexico. These fascinating creatures are known for their ability to regenerate lost body parts and their perpetual larval state, meaning they never fully transform into adult salamanders. With their otherworldly appearance and unique characteristics, axolotls have become popular pets among those looking for an unconventional aquatic companion.

One of the main benefits of having an axolotl as a pet is their captivating appearance and intriguing biology. They're relatively low-maintenance compared to some other exotic pets, and their peaceful nature makes them an ideal choice for a quiet household. Additionally, axolotls can live up to 15 years with proper care, making them a long-term companion for those willing to commit.

Axolotls require a well-maintained aquatic environment to thrive. A minimum 20-gallon tank with a secure lid, gentle filtration system, and hiding spots is necessary for their comfort and safety. It's crucial to maintain a stable water temperature between 60-68°F (16-20°C) and monitor water quality regularly to prevent health issues.

In terms of diet, axolotls primarily eat small aquatic animals such as earthworms, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Be sure to provide a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding, as obesity can lead to health problems.

It's important to note that axolotls are a critically endangered species in the wild, so make sure to acquire your pet from a reputable, ethical breeder. Also, be aware that axolotls are illegal to own in some regions, so check your local laws before bringing one into your home.

Sugar Gliders

Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials native to Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. Known for their ability to glide through the air using a membrane between their front and back legs, these adorable creatures have become increasingly popular as exotic pets. With their inquisitive nature and social disposition, sugar gliders can make delightful companions for those willing to meet their unique needs.

One of the main advantages of having a sugar glider as a pet is their strong bond with their owners. These animals thrive on social interaction and can form deep attachments with their human caregivers. Additionally, their small size and playful antics make them an entertaining and endearing addition to any household.

Sugar gliders require a spacious, well-ventilated enclosure that allows them to climb, jump, and glide freely. A tall cage with multiple levels, branches, and hiding spots is ideal. Since sugar gliders are highly social creatures, they should be kept in pairs or small groups to prevent loneliness and depression.

A balanced diet is crucial for a sugar glider's health and well-being. Their diet should consist of a mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, protein sources like insects or lean meat, and a specially formulated supplement to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients. Be cautious of feeding them high-sugar foods, as this can lead to health issues.

Regular handling and out-of-cage playtime are essential for keeping your sugar glider happy and well-socialized. It's important to note that sugar gliders are nocturnal, so their activity will mostly take place during the night.

Before committing to a sugar glider as a pet, be aware that they can live up to 12-15 years with proper care. Additionally, owning sugar gliders may be illegal or require special permits in some regions, so check your local laws before bringing one into your home.

With the right care and attention, sugar gliders can make loving and entertaining family pets. Embrace the unique qualities of these strange animals, and enjoy the companionship and excitement they bring to your home.

Chinchillas

Chinchillas are small, nocturnal rodents native to the Andes Mountains in South America. Known for their incredibly soft fur and curious nature, chinchillas have become popular pets among those seeking a unique and low-allergen companion. With their charming personalities and adorable appearance, these fluffy creatures can quickly win the hearts of their owners.

One of the main benefits of having a chinchilla as a pet is their hypoallergenic fur, making them a great option for individuals with allergies to more common pets like cats and dogs. They're also relatively quiet animals, which is ideal for those who prefer a peaceful household. Additionally, chinchillas have a long lifespan, often living up to 15-20 years with proper care, providing a long-term bond with their owners.

Chinchillas require a spacious, well-ventilated enclosure with multiple levels for climbing and jumping, as well as hiding spots for resting. Their cage should be filled with safe bedding material, such as aspen shavings or recycled paper products.

A chinchilla's diet should consist primarily of high-quality hay and specially formulated chinchilla pellets, with occasional treats like fresh vegetables and fruits. It's essential to provide clean water daily and monitor their food intake to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Chinchillas need regular dust baths to keep their fur clean and healthy. Provide a dust bath container with chinchilla-specific dust 2-3 times per week, allowing your pet to roll around and clean itself.

Socialization and handling are crucial for keeping your chinchilla happy and well-adjusted. Be patient and gentle when handling your chinchilla, as they may be initially skittish. Also, ensure they have ample time outside of their enclosure for exercise and exploration.

Before bringing a chinchilla into your home, ensure you're prepared for the long-term commitment and unique care requirements. With proper attention and care, chinchillas can become loving and entertaining family pets, bringing joy and companionship to your household.

Fennec Foxes

Fennec foxes are small, nocturnal mammals native to the deserts of North Africa. With their oversized ears, adorable faces, and playful personalities, these exotic creatures have captured the hearts of many animal lovers. As the smallest species of fox, fennec foxes can make fascinating and unique pets for those who are willing to provide proper care and attention.

One of the main advantages of having a fennec fox as a pet is their charming appearance and engaging personality. They're intelligent and curious animals, which can make them entertaining companions for families with older children. Additionally, fennec foxes are relatively clean animals, producing minimal odor compared to some other exotic pets.

Fennec foxes require a spacious and secure enclosure with plenty of hiding spots and enrichment items to keep them stimulated. Their natural habitat is in the desert, so it's important to maintain a warm temperature and low humidity in their living space.

A fennec fox's diet should consist of a mix of high-quality meat, insects, vegetables, and fruits, along with a calcium supplement to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients. It's essential to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Socialization and handling are crucial for keeping your fennec fox happy and well-adjusted. It's important to note that fennec foxes are high-energy animals and will need ample time outside of their enclosure for exercise and exploration.

Before considering a fennec fox as a pet, be aware that owning one may be illegal or require special permits in some regions, so check your local laws before bringing one into your home. Additionally, consult with an exotic animal veterinarian to ensure you can provide proper care and medical attention for your fennec fox.

Tarantulas

*Bunnicula, Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula*

Tarantulas are large, hairy spiders that can be found in various habitats across the globe. While they may not be the first choice for everyone, these fascinating creatures have gained popularity as exotic pets among arachnid enthusiasts. With their striking appearance and low-maintenance requirements, tarantulas can make intriguing pets for those willing to embrace their unique qualities.

One of the main benefits of having a tarantula as a pet is their low maintenance compared to other exotic pets. They do not require large enclosures or frequent interaction, making them ideal for individuals with limited space or time. Additionally, tarantulas are relatively quiet and clean animals, producing minimal noise and odor.

To properly care for a tarantula, you'll need to set up an appropriate enclosure with a secure lid to prevent escapes. The size and type of enclosure will vary depending on the species, but all tarantulas require hiding spots, substrate, and proper temperature and humidity levels to mimic their natural habitat.

A tarantula's diet primarily consists of insects such as crickets, mealworms, and roaches. It's essential to provide fresh water and remove any uneaten prey from their enclosure to maintain cleanliness.

Regular handling is not necessary for tarantulas, as they can become stressed from excessive handling. However, it's essential to monitor their health and consult an exotic animal veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior or appearance.

Before committing to a tarantula as a pet, research the specific species' care requirements and lifespan, as these can vary significantly. Also, be aware that some people have allergic reactions to tarantula hairs, so consider this before bringing one into your home.

Degus

Degus are small, social rodents native to Chile. With their curious nature and engaging personalities, these animals have become increasingly popular as exotic pets. They look similar to chinchillas and squirrels, with a long, bushy tail and round ears. Degus can make delightful and interactive pets for those seeking a unique and intelligent companion.

One of the main benefits of having a degu as a pet is their sociable and inquisitive nature. They enjoy interacting with their owners and can be quite affectionate, making them an endearing addition to any household. Additionally, degus are diurnal animals, meaning they are active during the day, which aligns well with most people's schedules.

Degus require a spacious, well-ventilated enclosure with multiple levels for climbing, as well as hiding spots for resting. Their cage should be filled with safe bedding material, such as aspen shavings or recycled paper products, and equipped with toys and enrichment items to keep them stimulated.

A degu's diet should consist primarily of high-quality hay and specially formulated degu pellets, with occasional treats like fresh vegetables and a small amount of fruit. It's essential to provide clean water daily and monitor their food intake to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Socialization and handling are crucial for keeping your degu happy and well-adjusted. As highly social animals, degus should be kept in pairs or small groups to prevent loneliness and depression. Be patient and gentle when handling your degu, as they may be initially skittish.

With proper care and attention, degus can become loving and entertaining family pets, bringing joy and companionship to your household.

Skunks (domesticated)

Domesticated skunks are bred for life in captivity and have their scent glands removed, making them a unique and odor-free option for exotic pet enthusiasts. Known for their intelligence and playful nature, domesticated skunks can make fascinating and interactive pets for those willing to provide proper care and attention.

One of the main advantages of having a domesticated skunk as a pet is their engaging personality and surprising intelligence. They can be quite affectionate with their owners and can even be trained to perform simple tricks or use a litter box. Additionally, without their scent glands, domesticated skunks do not produce the strong odor commonly associated with their wild counterparts.

Domesticated skunks require a spacious and secure living area, with hiding spots and enrichment items to keep them stimulated. A large dog crate or a modified room can serve as suitable housing. The living space should be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene.

A domesticated skunk's diet should consist of a mix of high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish, along with vegetables and fruits. It's essential to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Socialization and handling are crucial for keeping your domesticated skunk happy and well-adjusted. Regular interaction and playtime with their owners will help them develop a strong bond and prevent boredom.

Before considering a domesticated skunk as a pet, check your local laws, as owning a skunk may be illegal or require special permits in some regions. Additionally, consult with an exotic animal veterinarian to ensure you can provide proper care and medical attention for your skunk.

Final Thoughts

Exotic pets can bring a unique and exciting element to pet ownership, offering new experiences and challenges beyond those presented by more traditional pets. From hedgehogs and chinchillas to fennec foxes and domesticated skunks, each of these animals has its own distinct personality, care requirements, and benefits.

Before bringing an exotic pet into your home, it's crucial to thoroughly research the specific needs of the species you're interested in and ensure that you're prepared for the long-term commitment they require. Additionally, always check your local laws and regulations regarding the ownership of exotic pets, as some may be prohibited or require special permits.

By providing proper care, attention, and love, exotic pets can become cherished members of your family, offering companionship, fascination, and enjoyment for years to come. Embrace the unique qualities of these extraordinary animals and experience the rewards of sharing your life with an exotic pet.