Before Buying Exotic Pets, Please Do Your Homework First

This pet health content was written by a veterinarian, Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD. Writer Melissa Smith contributed to this article. It was reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, and was last updated on August 9, 2024

What Are Exotic Pets?

Exotic pets are essentially any animals that fall outside the typical "dog" or "cat" category. This term encompasses a wide range of unique and fascinating creatures that people choose to keep as companions.

Understanding Veterinary Specializations

Veterinarians often specialize in either large or small animal medicine. Large animal medicine typically covers animals like cows, horses, and other ruminants, including poultry. On the other hand, small animal medicine primarily focuses on dogs and cats.

But what about the animals that don't fit neatly into these categories? Birds (like canaries and Amazons)

• Small mammals (such as rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, and degus)
• Reptiles (including iguanas and monitors)
• Rodents (like rats)

These creatures require specialized care from veterinarians who are trained in exotic animal medicine.

The World of Exotic Pets

This is where exotic pets come into play. From birds and rabbits to ferrets, guinea pigs, iguanas, and more, these creatures require specialized veterinary care. Veterinarians who focus on exotic pets are trained to handle a variety of species, ensuring these unique animals receive the care they need.

For example, if you're considering getting a horse, there are things to consider to ensure you’re prepared.

Be Deliberate in Your Choice of Exotic Pets

Don’t just run out and buy the first cute exotic pet you stumble across. It’s crucial to consider how a pet will fit into your busy lifestyle and what you realistically have time for.

“Read all about the animals and their care and then decide on a species that will suit you and your circumstances best,” advises David Manning in 50 Really Exotic Pets. “Consider the accommodation, equipment, feeding, and handling requirements.”

This is a process that may take time. Some exotic pets are large and will need outdoor accommodations as well. It’s important to think things through and fully understand what you’re taking on.

Here are some specific precautions to keep in mind when considering an exotic pet:

• Assess the space requirements for the pet, including any outdoor accommodations.
• Understand the specific dietary needs and how they may differ from common pets.
• Consider the time commitment for proper care and handling.
• Research any special equipment or habitats that may be necessary.

Being deliberate in your decision-making process ensures that both you and your exotic pet will have a fulfilling and healthy relationship.

Exotic Pet Precautions

When considering an exotic pet, it’s essential to be aware of the specific needs and challenges associated with different types of animals.

Birds (Avian Medicine)

From parakeets to canaries, cockatoos, and untamed macaws, the bird world is vast and varied. Each species, from an African gray to an Amazon or a rosella, has its own unique requirements. Avian medicine is a specialized field, and veterinarians who focus on this area deserve immense respect for their dedication to improving the lives of our feathered friends.

Reptiles

Reptiles represent an extremely diverse category, with no single handbook covering all their needs. From iguanas left alone in dorm rooms over the summer to monitor lizards refusing to eat, the challenges are unique and varied. Does your vet know everything she should about an egg-bound snake or a gecko with poor coloration? The reptile world is indeed vast and complex.

Before deciding to bring a reptile into your home, Dr. Shawn Messonnier, DVM, in Exotic Pets: A Veterinary Guide for Owners, suggests asking yourself the following questions:

• Do I want a pet just to observe, or do I want to handle and socialize it?
• How much time can I devote to my pet?
• Can I afford proper medical care?
• Can I make or buy the correct habitat (home) for my reptile?

Considering these questions will help ensure that you are fully prepared for the responsibilities that come with caring for a reptile.

Amphibians and Chelonians

Amphibians and chelonians (like turtles) come with their own unique set of challenges. What about the African dwarf frog with a bad leg or the turtle that was found under the couch for several weeks? These creatures require specific care that goes beyond what’s needed for more common pets.

Small Mammals

Small mammals, such as rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, and chinchillas, are often grouped together, but they have distinct needs. For instance, a rabbit is not like a ferret or a guinea pig. Each species is special and deserves individualized care and treatment.

• Rabbits need specific dietary and environmental care.
• Ferrets require unique medical attention and social interaction.
• Guinea pigs have distinct dietary needs, including vitamin C supplementation.
• Chinchillas need dust baths and proper housing to stay healthy.

Pocket Pets

Pocket pets include hamsters, mice, rats, and even the occasional degu or gerbil. These small creatures each have different care requirements. For example, you wouldn’t treat a hamster the same as a mouse.

• Hamsters thrive with specific types of bedding and exercise opportunities.
• Mice need social interaction and a balanced diet.
• Rats are highly intelligent and benefit from mental stimulation.
• Degus require specialized diets to avoid health issues.

Understanding the unique needs of these pocket pets is essential for providing the best possible care.

What's a degu, you ask? Check out this video of a particularly affectionate one:

Animals Who Are Not Easy to Fit Into a Category

Some exotic pets are so unique that they don’t fit neatly into any category. Consider micro pigs, sugar gliders, and the occasional squirrel or pet skunk. The challenges of treating these animals are significant. For instance, the thought of removing the canines of a monkey is daunting, to say the least.

Perhaps in a later article, we can delve deeper into the difficulties of diagnosing, anesthetizing, and performing surgery on these animals. For now, it’s important to acknowledge that treating these creatures is anything but easy. Key Challenges:

• Micro pigs: They have specific dietary needs and require regular health monitoring.
• Sugar gliders: These nocturnal animals need a particular diet and environment to thrive.
• Squirrels and skunks: Highly unusual as pets, they often require specialized veterinary care.
• Primates (like monkeys): These animals are not just challenging but also controversial as pets.

"Veterinary care for birds and exotic pets has gotten quite specialized in the last few decades," says Dr. Douglas E. Knueven, DVM, adding that "many veterinarians ... refuse to treat these unusual pets altogether" (source).

This increasing specialization reflects the complexity and challenges of caring for such diverse animals.

Other Considerations

Obey the Law

When it comes to exotic pet ownership, laws vary widely depending on your location. Different parts of the country, and even different countries, may have specific regulations regarding what animals you can legally keep as pets.

“Pet ownership laws vary from state to state, sometimes even from city to city, so a creature mentioned in this book or even for sale in a pet store may not be legal to own,” warns Manning.

While some laws may seem outdated, they remain enforceable until changed. For example, ferrets are widely popular pets but are illegal to own in California and Hawaii. Being caught with a ferret in these states could result in a hefty fine, and worse, you might lose your furry friend.

Other animals also face legal restrictions. For instance: Hamsters are illegal to own in Hawaii.

• Certain species of snakes are banned or heavily regulated in various regions.

Additionally, it’s important to check with your homeowner’s insurance to ensure that coverage will continue if you house an exotic pet considered dangerous.

What's Your Budget?

While budgeting may not be the most exciting aspect of getting a pet, it’s a crucial one. Exotic pets come with unique needs, from specialized housing to security measures, and these expenses can add up quickly. Considerations should include:

• Housing: Special aquariums, cages, or outdoor enclosures.
• Feeding: Unique dietary requirements that may be more expensive than standard pet food.
• Security: Ensuring your pet’s safety and the safety of others with appropriate enclosures.
• Veterinary care: Specialized veterinary services for exotic pets can be costly.
• Supplies: Toys, habitat enhancements, and other necessary items.

These factors are essential not only for the health and happiness of your exotic pet but also for the safety of your household and neighbors. Be smart, responsible, and financially prepared.

Lifespan of Exotic Pets

The lifespan of exotic pets can vary significantly depending on the species, and this is a crucial factor to consider before bringing one into your home. Some exotic pets, like certain species of parrots and tortoises, can live for several decades, requiring a long-term commitment. On the other hand, smaller exotic pets, such as hamsters and certain reptiles, may have much shorter lifespans. Lifespan Considerations:

• Long-lived species: Parrots, tortoises, and some reptiles can live for 20-50 years or more.
• Medium lifespan: Many birds, like cockatiels, have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
• Short-lived species: Hamsters and small rodents may only live for 2-3 years.

Understanding the expected lifespan of your exotic pet is essential for proper planning and care.

Your Household Size

If you have children or frequent guests in your household, the choice of an exotic pet requires extra caution. Young children and visitors may not always handle animals properly, which can be dangerous for both the pet and the people involved. Consider the following risks:

• Injury: Snakes, lizards, spiders, and large mammals can cause injury or even death if mishandled.
• Safety: Exotic animals are often less trainable than standard pets, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Carelessness: Children or guests might neglect to secure cages or properly handle the animals, leading to potential injuries.

When choosing an exotic pet, ensure that your household can safely accommodate its unique needs.covers properly or handling, causing injury to the animals.

The Importance of Socialization for Exotic Pets

Socialization is a critical aspect of caring for exotic pets, although it is often overlooked. While some exotic pets are more solitary and may not require much interaction, others thrive on social engagement and can suffer from neglect if left isolated. Socialization Needs:

• Birds: Parrots and other social birds require daily interaction and mental stimulation to prevent behavioral issues.
• Mammals: Ferrets and other small mammals benefit from regular playtime and human interaction.
• Reptiles: While not as social, some reptiles still benefit from gentle handling and environmental enrichment.

Providing the appropriate level of socialization for your exotic pet ensures their mental and emotional well-being.

Common Misconceptions About Exotic Pets

There are many misconceptions about exotic pets that can lead to improper care and unrealistic expectations. One common myth is that exotic pets are less demanding than traditional pets like dogs and cats. In reality, many exotic pets require specialized care, including specific diets, environments, and veterinary attention. Another misconception is that exotic pets can be easily tamed and socialized, but this varies greatly depending on the species. Common Misconceptions Include:

• Exotic pets are low-maintenance: Many exotic pets require daily care and specialized environments.
• All exotic pets can be easily tamed: Some species remain wild and may not adapt well to captivity.
• Exotic pets don’t need regular vet visits: These pets often require specialized veterinary care.

Understanding these common misconceptions can help potential owners make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls.

Final Thoughts

When considering an exotic pet for your household, it’s essential to remember that these animals often have unique and demanding needs. Don’t let your child get a hedgehog for her bedroom, or buy a snake that your son is supposed to take care of, unless you’re ready to provide the necessary support. Exotic pets are not just novelties—they are living creatures that rely on us for their well-being. Key Reminders:

• Long-Term Commitment: Don’t keep a bird in a cage for 10 years without making any changes to its environment.
• Responsibility: We must take full responsibility for the creatures we bring into our homes, especially those that don’t naturally belong in suburban bedrooms, garages, dorm rooms, or cages.
• Do the Right Thing: It’s heartbreaking to see an exotic pet suffer because its caretaker neglected to research its needs.

Before giving the green light on bringing an exotic pet into your household, carefully consider the requirements needed to ensure these animals can live a good life in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• “Exotic Pets.” The Spruce Pets. https://www.thesprucepets.com/exotic-pets-4162074
• “NJ Exotic Pets.” NJ Exotic Pets. https://www.njexoticpets.com/
• “Exotic Pets Wichita.” Exotic Pets Wichita. https://exoticpetswichita.com/