Pets are normal parts of people’s lives, it isn’t at all unusual for a person to have a dog, a cat, a bird, a fish, or even a frog at home. However, some people aren’t content with just having these common domesticated animals as pets.

Some want to have more exciting companions at home, and thus, there are people who choose to have an exotic pet instead. While having an exotic pet can be quite rewarding, choosing the best exotic pet for you can be very confusing.

Here are some tips that may help you find the best exotic pet for you and your family.

When choosing an exotic pet, it is important to know the reasons for owning one and the responsibilities needed for keeping one. It is wise not to be swayed by impulse. One should have a good knowledge of a particular kind of pet before buying, else, the purchase or adoption could end in disastrous results. You should know what your motivation is to choose and exotic pet, because it involves a continuous commitment.

The best exotic pet for you is one that is legal. You would not be able to keep it, in a long term, if it is illegal in your area. You might get away for the time being, but eventually, you could get caught and face the dreaded consequences.

You should also consider an exotic pet’s adult size. A critter may be cute by the time you bring it home, but you might not be aware that it would grow into a giant in a few years’ time. Be sure that you have enough space for you exotic pet to live in by the time it reaches its full growth.

It is important to know the sociability of a particular exotic pet and to match it to your preference to find the best one to keep. You should know whether you want a pet that needs much of your attention or one that would best live if left alone in its dwelling.

You must also have in mind the expenses needed in maintaining the exotic pet. A good pet would not be your pet for long if you don’t have enough money to feed it and take care of it. This could even be truer with exotic pets who might need special care and attention.

The best exotic pet for you is one that you can keep, and for this to happen, you should know as much as you can, what you need in order to make this happen.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

Every person has his own choice as to the kind of pet he will bring home and take care of. Generally, people choose dogs or cats as pets since these animals are sociable and easier to take care of care. However, there are people who prefer to take care of exotic pets.

Ordinary pets are animals that people consider as pets because they are highly domesticated and subdued. On the other hand, exotic pets are animals that aren’t commonly found near society, aren’t domesticated and most of them belong to the wild.

A person who is planning to get an exotic pet should take into consideration his commitment in caring for such pet. If the motivation is merely to have the exotic pet shown off then it is better to think again. Owning an exotic pet is a heavy responsibility because they require special care.

Parents who are planning to give an exotic pet to their children should choose an exotic pet that is more subdued and can be easily handled by children. Safety should also be a main consideration when giving exotic pets to children.

Why not give your child a rabbit as an exotic pet? Rabbits are cuddlier and safer compared to other exotic pets like reptiles and the likes. Can you imagine your child holding a boa constrictor for a pet? Of course that would be the day! But rabbits, well they look like stuffed toys they don’t even seem like exotic pets at all!

Rabbits have become a common site nowadays because there are people who breed rabbits for business purposes. Some breed rabbits for their meat while some breed rabbits for reselling. Giving a rabbit to a child as an exotic pet would surely be appreciated without the giver worrying about safety and other issues.

Rabbits are fairly easy to take care of except of course when you have to give them warmth when temperatures go down. While rabbits are simple exotic pets, they also need tender loving care so make sure to educate the child on how to take care of the rabbit. Also ask the pet store about vaccines that may be given to the rabbit to make sure it is safe and healthy.

When buying rabbits, make sure you get one with a good pedigree because they have a higher resale value. In any case, rabbits with known and good pedigrees are better to breed and to take care of as exotic pets.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

For some people, owning an exotic pet can be quite an adventure and a challenge. There are many exotic pets that you can choose from. And for some, a tarantula is the best one on the list.

Tarantulas are spider-like species but are relatively bigger in size. They are usually found in the jungles and some species are supposed to have deadly venoms. They could also come in different colors and varieties.

If you want to get a tarantula for an exotic pet, here is a guide on which one to choose and how to take care of it.

1. Get the species that is just right in size. The size of the tarantula also corresponds to its care and maintenance. A bigger tarantula requires a larger space. It also needs more food and more care.

2. Get the spider good enough for beginners. The list includes the Chilean Rose, the Costa Rican Zebra, or the Mexican Redknee, among others. These are the types of tarantulas that are mostly ground dwellers or burrowers. They also tend to move slowly.

3. Get the tarantulas that isn’t much or not entirely poisonous. Again, there are some species that can cause injuries, even to its owners. If you aren’t an expert about the tarantulas just yet, maybe you can ask the pet store you are going to buy it from which types are not venomous and go for it.

4. For pets, prefer the female ones. Female tarantulas are supposed to live longer than their male counterparts. As an example, the female Chilean rose tarantula could live as long as 20 years or more. The male tarantula of the same kind is expected to live for only two years.

5. Get the younger tarantula. Some exotic pet shops know how old the pets are that they sell. Try to ask how old the tarantula is you like. If they are old enough, their lifespan may be nearing its end. And that isn’t a good choice, definitely.

Here are the basic things that you should know when you intend to get tarantulas for a pet. Be careful not to buy too many, especially if you are just starting out. Try to buy one species at a time and then know everything about it. Get a feel on how it is being taken cared of. Practice with it for some time, until you are sure you are ready to handle more of them.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

Felines are wonderful creatures. They bring so much allure and delight. They have natural class and elegance. 

It even gets better when they are exotic, like the tiger. Owning a tiger is such a big feat. It is like wearing a red outfit while the rest are in gray. 

How to Get Tiger as a Pet? 

Tigers are exotic cats. They are difficult to get. They are not the typical house cat seen in every block in the neighborhood. 

Tigers aren’t available in pet shops. It is very rare to find someone who can give an offer. Yet, the moment the opportunity is out there, more things are needed in owning the exotic pet tiger. 

Most tigers are endangered. Thus, this could be an obstacle. Make sure that the kind of tiger you get is not endangered, or else the feline might just be good for an overnight stay. 

Federal and local laws could restrict or regulate the ownership of exotic pets like the tigers. Get to know these first. Violating the law may be more than just losing the pet to the authorities. It could mean paying fines and more!

• Commitment and Responsibilities

Tiger ownership is a big commitment. Be ready for the responsibilities and headaches along the way.

 • Financial Capability

Expenses can’t be avoided in maintaining the tiger. The tiger is a big animal, it has big needs and demands. 

Owning a tiger is a big decision. Get the consent first of the family before someone gets the cold shoulder.

How to Care for the Tiger?

Once a tiger is fully settled in the household, a lifetime of companionship also entails proper care. Here are some tips to remember: 

1. Housing

Get a structure to house the tiger. This should be roomy enough for the feline to move around and play around. 

2. Diet

Tigers are heavy and expensive eaters. Keep a good stock of food. The food should meet the nutritional requirements of the feline. 

3. Veterinarian

Seek regular veterinary care. This is to ensure that the tiger gets the needed vaccination and treatment. Make sure there is one available within the vicinity who will be willing and able to attend to the exotic needs of the pet tiger. 

4. Safety

Make sure the tiger is properly secured in their spot. Put structures that will confine them to avoid unnecessary escapes, for the safety of everyone in the household and neighborhood. 

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

Exotic birds are among the most popular pets to keep. Not only are they absolutely beautiful, with their brilliantly colored feathers, many pet owners find them easier to take care of than, say, a fuzzy cat or a rowdy dog. However, choosing among the best exotic pet birds is rather confusing because there are several species to choose from. Here are some of the most popular exotic pet:

Sun Conures – these birds are popular among the medium-sized variety. They grow to about 12 inches in length, requiring less living space than large parrots. The feathers of Sun Conures are tinted with brilliant hues of orange, yellow, red, green, and blue.

Like parrots, Sun Conures can learn how to speak, however they can become quite vocal and noisy. They scream and screech and may not be ideal for those living in apartments buildings. Sun Conures usually live to around 20 to 35 years.

African Grays – these birds are considered to be among the most loquacious among exotic birds, they can acquire a vocabulary of up to 2,000 words. These birds are also rather intelligent, but they can get demanding and easily bored. However, African Greys can also be quite affectionate – perfect for owners who want sensible companions. They may live from 50 to 70 years.

Budgerigars – these are the most common among the pet birds and serve as good introduction to owning feathered pets. Budgies can be good pets for children and are quite attractive with a great variety of colors.

They also require a relatively small space, while being quite easy to maintain. Though they can typically learn only few words, they are intelligent enough to be able to sing and whistle tunes. Budgerigars may live from 12 to 14 years.

Parrotlets – these are among the smallest varieties of parrots. While parrotlets may be feisty they are quite intelligent just like their giant cousins. Parrotlets are also rather quiet compared to other exotic birds and thus they are ideal for owners who live in apartments or duplexes. The average parrotlet grows only to about 5 inches and lives to about 20 years.

Cockatiels – many find the medium-sized cockatiel as delightful pets. They also belong to the parrot family, and are known to be intelligent. Cockatiels usually just whistle or mimic random sounds, but they can also learn how to talk. They come in different combinations of color and can be quite attractive members of a home. Cockatiels usually live from 15 to 20 years. 

There are many more exotic pet birds and it is best to consult with a breeder to find the best one for you.  

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

Ferrets may not be a common animal choice for pets, but these critters have been domesticated by humans since way back in 4 BC. Many people find ferrets nice to have and as easy to keep, if not easier, as other typical pets like dogs and cats. Here are some basic tips about caring for ferrets.

Ferrets prefer living in spaces that resemble dens in the wild. A wired cage that is about 30 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 18 inches long may suffice. Many ferrets like living in cages that have things to climb such as ramps and stairs. The cage should allow good ventilation, thus it is not wise to use aquariums.

The floor may be covered by linoleum tiles and carpets or other soft washable materials to make the flooring more comfortable for ferrets to walk on than wire floors. The cage should be kept within 55 to 70 degrees. It should also be cleaned regularly with hot soapy water.

Ferrets are carnivores that require at least 22% fat and 34% protein from animal sources. It isn’t recommended to feed them dog or cat food. Chicken and turkey are ideal. Ferrets should never be fed vegetables because they are difficult to digest. Fruits are also not an option because sugars may increase tendencies for insulinoma. Egg whites should also be avoided because they can cause hemolytic anemia.

A small 3 to 5 inches-high cardboard box may be used as a litter box for ferrets. Litter pans should be secured to a side of the cage, far from the ferret’s eating and sleeping areas. Litter products made of plant or paper fibers are recommended to prevent clumping of fecal matter.

Ferrets tend to produce undesirable odors. To prevent them from smelling to strongly, they can be bathed using a special ferret shampoo, kitten shampoo, or diluted baby shampoo.

It isn’t advisable to bathe ferrets daily, because it will dry their skin, causing overcompensation of oil secretion, making the ferret smell more. It is also important to check the ferret’s ears for mites regularly. Ears should be cleaned using cotton soaked in a special cleanser that can be bought from a pet store.

Ferrets are very energetic animals. It is recommended to keep them entertained with toys that aren’t easy to break to maintain the animal’s safety.

Ferrets can be nice pets when one knows the right ways of caring for them. Having them can be a fun and exciting experience.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

For most people foxes are wild animals that are best left alone in their natural habitants. However there are some people who have discovered the joys of keeping a fox as a pet. It may surprising to some, but caring for a fox as an exotic pet may not be as difficult as it seems.

Foxes can be like dogs. They require attention and a lot of socialization. They are quite energetic, active, and curious. These intelligent creatures are also cunning, and flexible. They can easily escape, and thus it is important to see that they are secure wherever they maybe to avoid losing them.

Foxes have characteristic odors caused by oil and sweat glands. To prevent them from smelling, it is important to keep them cool and well ventilated so that they won’t secret oils excessively. Occasional bathing may also be advisable but too much bathing can cause dryness that exacerbates the secretion of odor-causing oils.

Foxes can be very much treated like dogs; however they should be put in secure cages when they are not being watched since they can easily escape. A dog crate is sufficient to secure them indoor, escape-proof pens may be used outdoors. When walking foxes, it is important to leash them securely enough so they can’t escape.

Foxes are omnivorous animals, they can eat almost anything. Thus it is important for them to have a balanced diet. There are commercial dry foods available on the market, specifically made for wild animals. These make great bases for their diet. Foxes may also be fed with premium cat or dog food. To make the fox’s diet varied, fruits, vegetables, eggs, mice, mealworms, and crickets may be added.

Many fox species can be trained to use the litter box. It is advisable to use a covered box because foxes dig in the wild when they excrete. Potty training is pretty much like the same with dogs. Give rewards and praise for each time they use the litter box, but punishments should be avoided when they defecate elsewhere. When the fox is on the verge of defecating or urinating, it should simply be moved to the litter box.

It is important to bring the fox to the vet regularly. Their health care is pretty much similar to dogs, and thus can be quite easy to manage.

Having an fox as an exotic pet can be rewarding. These little critters may prove to be a great companion and perhaps a best friend as well.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

Having exotic snakes as pets is becoming common nowadays. This is primarily because many people who have been taking care of one assert that snakes are actually tame, contrary to popular belief.

In spite of this, snakes remain to be not for everyone as care is quite complex. Just like in the case of having other types of exotic animals, commitment is very essential. Thus, prior to acquiring one, it is best to have the right information about them such as behavioral characteristics, dietary and habitat requirements, and other pertinent details. Only after which should you decide if you really are capable of having one.

Several species of exotic snakes may be considered as pets but the most common are garter snakes and pythons. For first-time owners, corn snakes, king snakes, and ball pythons are, in fact, most suitable as these are gentle and not very sensitive to food and the type of habitat they are in.

On the other hand, if you are a beginner, don’t think about acquiring Burmese pythons, red-tailed boas, tree boas or pythons, water snakes, anacondas, reticulated pythons and other wild snakes as they can really be dangerous especially when not handled properly. A rash approach affects their temperament negatively.

The appropriate diet and living area vary with different species. Generally, though, in creating an artificial environment for them, take note of security as they tend to get out of any enclosure. Check for gaps and the strength of the habitat itself.

Otherwise, you shall be putting others in danger as well as incurring liabilities. Also, check if there is enough space for them to move around. The size of the space must correspond well to the size of your pet.

As all snakes are carnivorous, mice and rats are the best food for them. It is better to give them pre-killed ones so as to protect them from possible injuries caused by their prey when alive.

This especially happens when the prey is given to them while they are not yet hungry and unwilling to attack. On your part, it would likewise be more convenient to have these killed rodents in a freezer than keep another habitat just for them.

Animal care, no matter what you choose as your pet, has indeed never been easy. For pet snakes, your responsibility doesn’t end when you have chosen the species. It is actually just the beginning of a long-term complex relationship.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

While many people find exotic pets to be cool, many pet owners are still quite reluctant to veer away from having dogs and cats as their animal companions. The thought of having exotic pets seems so out-of-this-world when one thinks of the special care needed for such unusual critters.

However, such isn’t really true since not all exotic pets are hard to keep. Some may even be easier to maintain than typical pets. One example of easy-to-keep exotic pets are box turtles.

When buying box turtles it is best to avoid doing it during the cold seasons as box turtles hibernate during such times. Box turtles tend to be stressed during the winter due to the dehydration and starvation that comes with hibernation.

A good box turtle would feel solid and weighty when you pick it up. Check for its strong reflexes by gently tugging its hind leg and seeing if it quickly and strongly pulls its legs away. The face and limbs should have no swellings, the eyes should be alert and clear. There should be no discolorations or slime on the shell.

There should be no secretions coming from the mouth and nose. There should be no breaks, cracks, or overgrowths in the beak. Common sense would usually help one find the tell-tale signs of bad condition.

Boxed turtles live well both indoors and outdoors. They just need an enclosure that allows them enough space to live in. The enclosure should be at lest 36 by 12 inches and have a wall high enough to keep the turtle from climbing out.

Box turtles prefer living on slightly moistened potting soil that have no coarse substrates that may damage their shells. There should be enough water for the turtle to dip in and climb out as it wants. For cold areas, there should be a heat source such as a heating pad to regulate the temperature.

Box turtles need only to be fed once every morning for youngsters, and every other day for adults. Box turtles need a balanced diet that contains both animal and plant materials. Varied vegetables are good when combined with canned dog food are usually recommended for the turtles. Other owners feed box turtles with mashed chicken liver, earthworms, slugs and small insects.

Keeping box turtles as exotic pets may be a good decision for many. They are easy to live with and easy to maintain. It is also very enjoyable to witness these creatures grow and live.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa

You should be a responsible pet owner if you intend on having exotic pets. You should personally consider your lifestyle in finding the perfect exotic pet. You should be committed as an owner in providing the needs of your exotic pet in order to survive.

There are exotic pets that may need special treatment. You may find exotic pets that may be required to eat large amounts of meat and could be a threat to your kids when they are fully-grown. Large exotic pets can be really challenging to care for compared to a parrot or a turtle which are easier to grow and breed. If you consider owning a turtle, here are some tips on how you can properly take care of your turtle.

1. Turtles need the right temperature in order to live. You should maintain a 77 to 96 degrees F temperature on the aquarium. You may install an aquarium heater to provide the needed temperature for your turtle. Turtles tend to become sluggish and lose their appetite when the temperature is low.

2. You should keep your aquarium clean. Prevent the aquarium from becoming too soiled. In this way, you will keep your turtle away from health problems. You may use a filtration system to maintain clear and clean water.

3. Supply your turtle with sufficient food such as algae, crustaceans, mouse pups, and small fishes. You may also provide food sources like fruits and green vegetables that are best for terrapins.

4. You may feed turtles two to three times a week. You may use a small holding container that will separate the left over from the normal enclosure of the aquarium.

5. You should always clean the whole aquarium and its filtration system at least twice a month. Remove the dirt from the ponds where in most of the time serves as the resting place of your turtle.

6. 75 percent of water in the aquarium for swimming and the remaining space for your turtle’s basking. Basking is essential for turtles because it prevents shell dryness.

7. You may schedule a regular check up with your community veterinarian who specializes in turtles and other reptiles.

Being an exotic pet owner requires a lot of responsibility. You should always assess yourself if you can really provide care for an exotic pet. You should plan very well so that you can prepare properly once you have decided to own exotic.

By Ihda Khairun Nisa