Facts to Know About Exotic Pets

Pets that are relatively unusual or rare are known as exotic pets. Nowadays, exotic pets have become popular among several pet lovers. They have such majestic beauty making them appreciable to many. Amphibians, reptiles, mammals, or birds that aren’t native but raised in captivity, are some examples to share. Exotic pets can be fun, interesting, and unique pets to have. 

Sometimes raising them can seem so hard and challenging. But if you get it right, owning exotic pets can be really rewarding. So, before getting an exotic pet, there are many important things that one should know. If you are interested in having an exotic pet, this article is written for you.

Choosing the Right Pet

Before getting an exotic pet, make sure you choose the right one for you. Choose your pet based on the time and care you’re willing to offer.  Your lifestyle can play a big role in selecting the ideal one. You must consider the needs of the species such as the temperature gradients, humidity, enclosure size, eating habits, substrate, and food variety that will help them grow. 

Maintenance of the Pet 

Exotic pets also need proper care like any other pet. For some animals, regular maintenance is necessary. Some species need special care. Like a parrot’s wings have to be clipped so that they do not hurt themselves or get lost by flying here and there. To prevent overgrowth, their beaks and nails should be trimmed and polished often. Chinchillas are pets that need dust baths regularly so that their dense fur coat can be cleaned properly. 

Reptiles have some other unique requirements such as needing to soak them regularly in water, to keep them well hydrated, and help them shed their old skin (ecdysis). Some might want to have live feedings. Visit Topflight Dubia to know how to feed them properly. You should think about these kinds of specific maintenance requirements before choosing an exotic pet for the sake of both your and the pet’s well-being. 

Consider the Lifespan

Some species can live for several years. Tortoises and parrots are a good example. Choose such an animal if you know someone will take over your pet after you. You can consider doing a trial period before selecting one to know if the pet is a good fit for you. A parrot can be such a pet that likes to choose its owner. If the pet doesn’t like you for some reason, it might become stressed and aggressive later on. 

Pros and Cons 

Since exotic pets are not regular pets, you should know about the advantages and disadvantages when you are ready to have an exotic pet.

The Pros

The pros of getting an exotic animal as a pet are:

• They are Charmingly Unique:

  Exotic pets are unique and rare and are not like regular pets. They have an amazing charm and grab the attention of others. They can be a wonderful conversation starter and great for wildlife awareness.  

• It’s a Learning Experience:

  Exotic pets are amusing as they are incredible at social interactions along with their charming appearances. They make us learn many new things when we seek how to look after them, such as understanding their nutritional and environmental needs. 

• They Require Little Space:

  Most domesticated exotic animals do not need much space. You can easily have them in a small space. If you’re a city dweller living in an apartment, a small animal like a rat, chinchilla, guinea pig, hamster, little bird, or even reptile can be a great choice.

• They Can Survive for a Long:

  Having a regular pet can be heartbreaking as they do not live for a long time. They become our best friends easily but can leave us quickly. So, if you want a pet with a long lifespan, an exotic animal can be a better choice.

• They are Pretty Much Hypoallergenic:

  Having a 100% hypoallergenic animal is hard to find, but if you have fur and dander allergies, common furry pets are not for you. In this case, you might like to consider having an exotic pet such as a reptile, ferret, tarantula, or aquatic pet.

• They Require Low Upkeep:

  Exotic pets do not need so much attention as common pets. You just need to feed them well and care regularly. It will be enough for their well-being.

The Cons

Though keeping an exotic animal has many benefits, it does have some cons too. Some are given below: 

• Ethical Concerns:

  The exotic animal’s welfare is the chief and prime concern we all should consider. A wild animal needs a lot of care while they are living as a pet. To get them as pets, owners need to do research, investments, preparations, adjustments, and substantial medical care. Regardless of these arrangements, we can not be certain that the preparations will be satisfactory for the animals.

• They are Not Suitable for Cuddling: 

• Exotic animals are not proper for cuddling. It is forbidden to hug or cuddle birds and reptiles, and especially aquatic animals.

• Chances of Infectious Diseases and Pests:

  Wild animals might spread infectious diseases that can be fatal to humans. So, you have to be aware of this fact while having an exotic animal as a pet.

• They Grow Up:

  Before getting an exotic pet, remember that they grow up. And some of the animals that look so fascinating at a younger age can become wild after development. That’s why you must choose wisely and know the necessary facts about the exotic animal you want as a pet.

Be sure to research the exotic animal you want to have. Remember, they are unique animals that have unique needs. Educate yourself before having them as company. You might like to ask a veterinarian about which animal to choose. It will be beneficial for you as well as your future pet. 

Hope you get a great companion soon!