Cats and dogs are far from being your only option when it comes to pets! Domesticated animals come in many forms, and you can find a pet that might be unusual but completely changes your life! These unusual pets are known for being highly affectionate and great companions.
Sugar Gliders
Sugar gliders are playful, nocturnal animals that make wonderful family pets. They’re energetic, cuddly, and love forming close bonds with their caretakers. They also come in a variety of colors, so you can find a sugar glider that really speaks to you. As long as you take the time to properly handle and train them, sugar gliders can even be great pets for families with young kids.
Coatimundi
Coatimundi are a member of the raccoon family. They can be a pets in some states with a permit, but they do require a lot of research and preparation to care for. Although when raised from babies they can become docile, sweet creatures, they are not best for exotic pet owners without any experience.
Instead, coatimundi needs a handler who can provide them with the environment and diet they need to thrive. When you dedicate time to these amazing animals, they can become wonderful, silly pets that make you smile every day.
Alpacas
An alpaca is like a llama but smaller. They also have shorter snouts and only one coat of hair. They’re silly, energetic animals that love becoming close friends with humans who care for them. An alpaca can also be an excellent pet to have on a large property with lots of grass! Since they eat so much of it, they can keep growth in check, cutting down on your landscaping.
Although they are naturally shy, alpacas warm up over time and eventually become very close, sweet, and affectionate with their human handlers. Owning an alpaca is a big commitment because they need lots of space and grooming to be happy. However, for those who have the resources to give them everything they need, an alpaca can become a wonderful pet and companion.
Kangaroo
With the proper permit, pet owners can legally own a kangaroo in the states of Idaho, Illinois, Maine, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington. Severak states, including South Carolina, West Virginia, and Wisconsin don’t require permits to have a kangaroo as a pet! These Australian cuties are really quite sociable when they’re bred and tamed in captivity.
A kangaroo baby (called a joey) needs to be hand-raised, bottle-fed, and nurtured to grow up healthy and strong. This makes them a considerable time commitment and definitely not for someone who hasn’t put in the research. However, it’s hard to beat hanging out with a kangaroo, and they certainly make for an unusual pet that is bound to capture everyone’s heart and attention.
Hedgehogs
Adorable hedgehogs are a good alternative to rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs for exotic animal lovers. They are easy to care for and come in several varieties, including the adorable Long-Eared Hedgehog and the African Pygmy Hedgehog. Hedgehogs are fun to own and offer years of companionship. Enjoy getting to know yours and discovering its unique personality!
