Exotic animals

The decision to get an exotic pet should never be taken lightly. People choose exotic pets for a variety of reasons but it is important to carefully examine the reasons, consider the reality of caring for the species chosen, and learn as much as possible about the pet before bringing it home!

The right exotic pet will truly become a member of the family. Sadly, many exotic pets are chosen on an impulse basis, or without adequate prior research. Exotic animals are rarely low maintenance or inexpensive to care for in the long run. It is important to spend time learning about a potential pet before bringing it home, and to have all the necessary equipment and supplies on hand for the homecoming to make the transition to a new home as easy as possible for the pet.

Consider your motivation for getting a pet and whether that pet is going to meet your expectations (e.g. social and cuddly or independent) and fit into your long term plans. Some owners simply want to have a pet that is out of the ordinary. Others may want a pet that doesn't require a lot of attention. In the end the decision to acquire an exotic pet must be based the amount of the time and attention available to give to a pet, and the ability to provide adequate housing, space, and care (including costly veteriary care if needed).Continue
The term "exotic pet" covers a tremendous variety of species. The first decision will be between the following: mammal (small caged pet or larger), reptile (lizard, snake, turtle), amphibian (frog, salamander), bird, fish, or insect. Even once this narrowed down, there are a huge number of choices to make. The only recourse is research, research, and more research. Here are some factors to consider when making a choice:
legality - first and foremost, find out which kinds of pets are legal in your area. Laws may be enacted a various levels of government that prohibit certain pets.
size of the pet - of course, the larger the pet the larger it's home will have to be, and the more space and/or exercise it will need.
sociability - do you want a pet that enjoys or seeks out human interaction, or a pet that is happier without regular handling?
feeding requirements - commercially prepared food are available for several pet species, but others will require a variety of fresh foods prepared daily, or even mice or insects as a staple in their diets.
housing - consider what size and type of housing will be necessary, or if the pet will run free in the home (or both). For pets that need an enclosure, can an appropriate amount of space be provided? For pets that spend time out of the cage, some degree of pet proofing will be necessary (for some species moreso than others).
compatibility with children - some pets are ill-suited to live with small children.
single Vs multiple pets - some pets are happily independent, but others will be much more content with a companion of the same species. If multiple pets will be kept, though, same sex pairs (often female) are often preferred to prevent reproduction. On the other hand, some species are too territorial to be kept in the same enclosure if multiple pets are desired.
compatibility with other pets in the home - will a new pet get along with other pets in the home, or be stressed out by other pets in close proximity to them?
veterinarians - it is a good idea to have a veterinarian lined up to care for your pet. For some of the more unusual ones it may be difficult to find one willing to see them.
activity level of the pet - some are very active and require lots of exercise, others will be quieter.
destructive tendencies - the curious, active pet can wreak a lot of havoc in a house.
pet sitters - consider if you have someone who will look after your pet if you go away. Some of the more "unique" pets may be a challenge when it comes to finding pet sitters.
potential danger posed by the pet - some pets can be aggressive or even dangerous, and some are potentially toxic.
health concerns - some animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans (e.g. reptiles and Salmonella). This is an important consideration if there are household members with vulnerable immune systems - young children, elderly people, or immunocompromised people.