When it comes to defining what should be considered an exotic pet, you will find that everyone has their own definition of what qualifies. Some consider that the term should be restricted to those animals that are so unique that they have to be specially licensed to have, like the big cats of the world, while others consider unique pets currently being sold in pet store chains to be exotic. We will cover examples of both types here, so that if you are in the market for an exotic pet, you will be armed with the knowledge concerning some of the most popular animals available today.
These cute little guys originate from Australia, and have taken countries like the United States by storm. They weigh less than 5 ounces, and are popular because of their insatiable curiosity concerning the world around them. They bond quickly with their humans, and are very social. Unfortunately for most humans, they are also primarily nocturnal, and will call for your attendance the moment you lay down to sleep at night. If you want to have a sugar glider as a pet, it might be a good idea to buy a pair so that they will always have company, and a playmate.
Kinkajous
The kinkajou is another nocturnal animal that is quickly growing in popularity as a pet. They come from the rain forests of Mexico and Central America, and are characterized by their affectionate natures. They are carnivorous, but have been known to subsist on a diet consisting of mostly fruits and love sweet treats like gummy bears, marshmallows and sugary cereals.
Originating from South and Central America, the squirrel monkey is an omnivorous type of pet, meaning that they will eat pretty much everything that strikes their fancy. Their regular diet will consist of anything from fruits and vegetables to bird eggs and small vertebrates, quite a lot for a creature that barely weighs more than two pounds themselves. They prefer to travel in packs, and crave the company of other monkeys as well as humans. They are also highly intelligent, and have been trained as helper animals for several decades now, capable of providing far more assistance to the handicapped than any other animal. They are very affectionate in nature, which makes them the perfect house pet to have around.
Bengal Cats
For those who prefer cats, the Bengal cat may be more to your liking. This is a hybrid creature, made from a developed genetic code that included breeds like the Asian Leopard cat. The goal was to create a creature with extremely exotic looks, and so far the experiment has been a great success. There are currently several different crossbreeds available on the market, including the Cheetoh, the Toyger and the Serengeti cats. With these cats, the higher the percentage of purebred exotic cat in the mix, the higher the cost will be for the animal. Keep in mind that these cats carry all the habits of their parent breeds, including the need to hunt, so adult cats may be more aggressive than you might wish for your home environment.
Attached Images:
- License: Creative Commons image source
- License: Creative Commons image source
This was a guest post by Elle From EasiPetCare- a low cost vet with surgeries all over the United Kingdom.