Regarding pet ownership, the world beyond cats and dogs attracts the adventurous and unconventional. Exotic mammals offer unique pet experiences filled with wonder and awe. With their exceptional appearance and charming behaviour, these remarkable creatures make fascinating companions. Although keeping exotic mammals as pets is not for everyone due to their unique care needs, it is a worthwhile endeavour for those who have the passion and resources to create the best environment for these extraordinary animals. In this article, we look at exotic pets and discover the top ten exotic mammals worth keeping as unique pets.
Fennec fox (Vulpes zerda)
Known for their oversized ears and adorable faces, fennec foxes have captured the hearts of many exotic pet lovers. These tiny canines hail from North Africa and are known for their playful and social nature. Although fennec foxes may not be as affectionate as domestic dogs, they can form strong bonds with their human caregivers.
Considering a fennec fox as a pet, consider its personal care needs. They require a spacious, secure enclosure with plenty of room for digging and burrowing. Additionally, their diet should include high-quality commercial fox food and insects to meet their specific nutritional needs. Fennec foxes thrive in warm climates and require a comfortable habitat to stay happy and healthy.
Sugar glider
Native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, sugar gliders are adorable marsupials known for their gliding abilities and attractive appearance. These tiny creatures have a unique way of bonding with their owners, often forming solid bonds and enjoying cuddles. Sugar gliders can even be carried in bags, replicating their natural habitat.
It is essential to provide a cage with good ventilation and ample opportunities for climbing and gliding. Your diet consists of balanced fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. Additionally, sugar gliders are nocturnal, so may not be the best choice for those who prefer a daytime pet. Patience and dedication are crucial when caring for these adorable marsupials.
Capybara (Hydrochoerus Hydrochaeris)
If you dream of having a pet that resembles a giant guinea pig, a capybara might be the ideal choice. Capybaras are the world's most giant rodents native to South America. Their friendly and sociable nature makes them lovable companions. Still, they need plenty of room to roam, a secure enclosure and a water feature to swim in, as these semi-aquatic creatures love to soak in water.
Capybaras are herbivores and feed mainly on grass and hay. Their need for social interaction makes them better suited to families or individuals who can spend much time with them. Capybaras are known for forming strong bonds with their human caregivers, making them one of the most affectionate exotic mammals on this list.
Kangaroo (Kangarooidae)
Wallabies are closely related to kangaroos and are native to Australia. Under the right circumstances, these small marsupials make charming and unique pets. Wallabies are adorable, curious, and fun to watch.If you are considering a wallaby as a pet, it is crucial to provide a large, secure outdoor enclosure, as it will need room to jump and explore. The proper diet for a wallaby includes fibre-rich pellets and a mixture of fresh fruits and vegetables. It's essential to research the specific species you're interested in because there are different types of wallabies, each with varying care requirements.
Chinchilla lanigera
Known for their incredibly soft and thick fur, chinchillas are adorable little rodents native to the Andes Mountains of South America. These little animals are very active, agile, and known for their playful behaviour. Chinchillas are known for their jumping and climbing abilities. Therefore, providing a multi-layered playpen with different toys and activities is vital for their well-being.
As for diet, chinchillas require a high-fibre, low-fat diet that includes hay, pellets, and occasional treats. Additionally, their fur is delicate, so a proper dust bath is essential to keep it clean. Chinchillas are gentle and friendly animals that make for pet owners with the time and dedication to give them the care they need.
Lemur (Lemuroidea infraorder)
If you've ever dreamed of owning a pet that resembles the playful creature from the movie Madagascar, you might have considered a lemur. Native to Madagascar and surrounding islands, these primates are known for their unique appearance and lively personalities.
Lemurs make fascinating pets, but they also pose unique challenges. They need plenty of space, a safe and stimulating environment, and the company of other lemurs. Lemurs have specific nutritional needs, including various fruits, vegetables and protein sources. Although these exotic pets can form strong bonds with their caregivers, they require extensive social interaction and a stimulating environment to thrive.
Potos flavus
The Kinkajou, also known as the honey bear, is a small arboreal mammal native to Central and South America. These creatures have a unique appearance with prehensile tails and long tongues adapted for sucking nectar from flowers, similar to bears.
Although Kinkajou are affectionate towards their owners, they require a special diet that includes fruits, nectar and protein sources. They are known to be nocturnal, so potential owners should be prepared for a schedule that matches the Kinkajou's natural behaviour. Kinkajou requires plenty of climbing opportunities and a safe environment for risk-free exploration.
Skunk (Mephitis mephitis)
Skunks may not be the first animal that comes to mind when you think of exotic pets, but when you describe them, they can be surprisingly lovable and helpful companions. In many states and countries, owning a skunk as a pet may be regulated or illegal. So check local laws before considering one.
Purebred skunks can be affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. Their diet usually consists of high-quality commercial cat food, but they can also eat fruits and vegetables. Appropriate housing, space to satisfy their curiosity, and continued social interaction are vital to their well-being.
Hedgehog (Hedgehog family)
Hedgehogs are one of the most popular exotic pets on this list because of their small size, cute appearance, and relatively easy care. Native to Europe, Asia and Africa, these small mammals have become popular pets worldwide.
Hedgehogs need a cage that is large enough, with plenty of hiding places and a wheel for locomotion. Their diet consists of high-quality hedgehog food and a variety of insects. Hedgehogs are generally solitary animals and can be easily tamed with proper handling and socialization. Their small size and relatively low maintenance make them popular with those new to exotic pets.
Serval cat (Leptailurus serval)
High on our list is the serval, a prominent African wild cat that can be kept as an exotic pet. Serval cats are known for their striking fur patterns, tall ears, and slender bodies. These majestic creatures are active and curious, making them fascinating companions for experienced exotic pet owners.
However, owning a serval cat comes with significant responsibility. They need a large, secure outdoor enclosure with plenty of room to roam and jump. Servants are carnivores and require a diet primarily of raw meat, which can be challenging to obtain and prepare. They may be wary of strangers and need extensive socialization from an early age to bond with their owners.
Conclusion
Exotic mammals can be unique and charming pets, but they require special care and attention. Before you decide to bring these remarkable animals into your home, it is essential to understand their specific needs as well as local laws and regulations to ensure you have the necessary time, resources, and dedication to provide them with the best possible care. If you're up for the challenge, owning one of these ten exotic mammals can be a rewarding experience and allow you to develop a deep connection with a wild world rarely explored in everyday life.