17 Unusual Pets That Are Growing in Popularity

For those looking for something beyond the typical dog or cat, unusual pets are becoming increasingly popular. These animals bring a unique charm to pet ownership and often have fascinating behaviors that set them apart. Here are 17 unusual pets that are gaining popularity and making their way into more homes.

1. Axolotls

Axolotls, also known as “Mexican walking fish,” are a type of salamander that never fully matures, staying in their aquatic juvenile state. With their adorable, smiling faces and frilly gills, they make a fascinating pet. They require a tank with clean, cool water, but are relatively low-maintenance compared to other exotic pets.

2. Sugar Gliders

Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials that can glide from place to place using the skin flaps between their front and back legs. These social animals are highly interactive and can form strong bonds with their owners. They do require a large cage and social time but can be a rewarding pet for those who enjoy something out of the ordinary.

3. Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs have grown in popularity due to their adorable, spiky appearance and low-maintenance care. They are nocturnal creatures, often spending the day sleeping and becoming more active at night. Hedgehogs are relatively easy to care for, needing a simple diet of kibble and insects, and they can be quite friendly when properly socialized.

4. Fennec Foxes

Known for their huge ears and small size, fennec foxes are native to the deserts of North Africa but have become more common as pets. They are energetic and playful, with dog-like behaviors, but they also require a lot of attention and exercise. Their exotic looks and unique behavior make them a hit among pet enthusiasts.

5. Tarantulas

For those who love spiders, tarantulas are becoming an increasingly popular choice as pets. They come in various species, each with its own colors and behaviors. Tarantulas are relatively low-maintenance, requiring little more than a small tank and occasional feeding of live insects, but they certainly make for an interesting conversation starter.

6. Pygmy Goats

Pygmy goats are miniature versions of standard goats and have become trendy as pets due to their playful, affectionate nature. They require outdoor space and love to climb and explore, making them ideal for people with a yard. Pygmy goats are social and can even be trained to walk on a leash, making them a fun and engaging pet.

7. Snakes

Snakes have always had a niche following, but more people are warming up to the idea of having them as pets. Ball pythons, corn snakes, and king snakes are popular choices because of their calm temperaments and easy care. These reptiles need a suitable tank environment with the right temperature and humidity but are otherwise low-maintenance pets.

8. Ferrets

Ferrets are playful, curious creatures that are full of energy, making them fun companions for those who enjoy active pets. They love to explore and need plenty of playtime outside their cage. Ferrets are social animals that can get along well with other pets, though they require a good deal of attention and space.

9. Chinchillas

Chinchillas are soft, fluffy rodents that are known for their luxurious fur and gentle temperament. They are nocturnal, so they’re more active at night, and they enjoy dust baths to keep their fur clean. Chinchillas can live up to 15 years with proper care, making them a long-term commitment but also a rewarding pet.

10. Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are unique pets that are perfect for someone looking for a small, low-maintenance animal. They live in shells that they change as they grow, which is fascinating to watch. With the right tank setup and environment, hermit crabs can live for several years and make an unusual yet interesting pet.

11. Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are friendly, easygoing reptiles that are becoming a common choice for first-time exotic pet owners. They enjoy basking under heat lamps and can be handled regularly, making them interactive pets. Their docile nature and relatively simple care requirements make them a popular choice for reptile enthusiasts.

12. Miniature Donkeys

Miniature donkeys are not only adorable but are also known for their friendly and gentle personalities. They require outdoor space and can be quite affectionate with their owners. While they are a bit more demanding in terms of space and care, their loving nature and social behavior make them increasingly popular with those who have the room to keep them.

13. Fancy Rats

Rats may not be the first animal that comes to mind as a pet, but fancy rats are intelligent, social, and surprisingly affectionate. They are easy to care for, require minimal space, and enjoy interacting with their owners. Fancy rats can even learn tricks, making them a fun and engaging pet option.

14. Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos are small, spotted lizards that are easy to care for and have gentle temperaments. They don’t require a lot of attention, but they are interesting to watch and handle. With their slow movements and docile nature, they make great pets for those new to reptiles.

15. Vietnamese Potbellied Pigs

Potbellied pigs are intelligent, trainable, and can even be housebroken, making them more like dogs than you might expect. They require a good amount of space and attention, but their playful and affectionate behavior has led to a rise in their popularity as pets. They can form strong bonds with their owners and live long lives if properly cared for.

16. Scorpions

Scorpions, especially the emperor scorpion, are gaining popularity as a low-maintenance exotic pet. They don’t require much space, and their care is relatively simple as long as their habitat is kept at the correct temperature and humidity. While they may not be for everyone, scorpions are an intriguing option for those who want something out of the ordinary.

17. Cockatiels

Cockatiels are small, friendly parrots that have been growing in popularity as pets. They are known for their affectionate nature and can even learn to mimic sounds or whistles. Cockatiels are social birds that enjoy human interaction, and they don’t require a lot of space, making them a great pet for bird lovers.