Choosing an Exotic or Unusual Pet

Choosing an unusual animal for a pet can be fun learning process, but should not be undertaken without proper research. Both adults and children can benefit from owning an exotic pet, and there are many that are easier to take care than traditional pets. Of course, there are unique responsibilities when choosing to bring an exotic pet into your home. While some exotic pets require special licensing to own within the United States, many only have minimal, if any, guidelines. Consider these animals when choosing your exotic pet.

Piranhas- A perfect pet for experienced aquarists, piranhas can and will devour human flesh! Care should always be taken when owning a piranha. In a home aquarium, piranhas can reach 8-10 inches. Found naturally in South America and Guyana waters, they are silvery-gold with a red through and mouth full of razor sharp teeth. Piranha’s aggressions are enhanced because they live in schools. While you can have an individual piranha, it cannot be added to group at a later time. Individual fish are less aggressive, but will attack if provoked or distressed. It is possible to include one to two Piranhas with other fish; however, they should be larger, more aggressive fish. Piranhas only eat meat, preferably live (such as feeder goldfish, minnows, and earthworms). DO NOT feed by hand. This high protein diet leads to a high waste product. Extra filtration will be necessary.

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach- An absolute impossibility for some, this pet can actually be quite interesting. Children especially would enjoy this pet- with a close eye kept on them, of course! Madagascar hissing cockroaches can grow up to three inches long and over an inch wide- much larger than your typical cockroach! They are clean, odorless, and very sanitary, and do not bite. Resembling a beetle, the distinctive hissing noise can be heard when the animal is disturbed, during mating rituals, and sometimes for no reason at all. Hissing cockroaches eat a wide variety of foods such as dog and rat food, fruits, and vegetables.