Keeping up with the Jones’—or even outdoing them—no longer means getting the better BBQ just in time for the neighborhood cookout this summer. In a time where everyone is looking for the next big thing, and looking to stand out from the crowd, more and more people are turning to their pets in order to do so. No longer is having a family pet be a dog or a cat the standard, the bar has been raised, and it’s been done by a significant amount.
Having a unique and desirable pet used to mean having an iguana or a cool snake to make everyone envious, but now those with the means to do so are branching out and adding exotic pets to the family instead. Depending where in the United States (or even the world) you live, each state has its very own laws, rules and regulations about which animals you are legally allowed to own. Some states have strict bans against owning certain exotic animals, so it’s always wise to do your homework before trying to obtain one. You should also do your due diligence in terms of how to properly care for the animal once you obtain it. Checking with your state government into what is and isn’t legal is always a smart decision, as some animals require a license to own.
So, when you think of exotic animals, you may think wild and dangerous, but the word also applies to small, cute, friendly and extremely adorable. In fact, the word exotic actually refers to animals that are not native or indigenous to your own land. Taker a look at these five tiny critters that are legal in the US and absolutely the cutest little things you could ever call your own.
Sugar Glider
These marsupials look like a combination of a small badger and a mouse, and they are part of the kangaroo family. Originating from places like Australia and Indonesia, they grow to only about eight inches in length when fully grown and weight roughly five pounds. Aptly named for their love of sweet foods—as well as their unique ability to float through the air effortlessly. With tons of personality, this furry little creature loves attention and bonds well with people. Ideal for someone that is home a lot, or for someone that can afford to buy two, as they need social interaction around the clock. They are nocturnal, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking about snagging one for yourself. The average cost to own one is about $200.
Fennec Fox
Unlike your run of the mill wild fox, the Fennec fox is actually quite docile and is far smaller when fully grown. Indigenous to the desert, the Fennec fox is smaller than the average house cat, and they are smart enough to be potty trained to use a litter box. Although most foxes usually make bad pets, the Fennec fox is an excellent pet to own. Naturally playful, they typically require a lot of activity and exercise. This animal is perfect for anyone looking to buck the trend of having a dog or cat around the home.
Kinkajou
Hailing from Central and South Africa, these animals are a distant relative of the raccoon. The Kinkajou has an average lifespan of about 20 years, so they’ll be a great addition to the family for years to come. Often referred to as the “honeybear”, the kinkajou are extremely affectionate and tend to get along very well with humans. There playful and docile manner has seen them become one of the more popular exotic animals in homes across the United States over the last decade. Their soft short fur, social habits and their oversized eyes has led many people to purchase them as adorable and loving pets.
Muntjac Deer
Now, don’t let the name scare you away. As you may or may not know, deer in the wild can look cute and friendly, but they possess quite the mean streak when approached. Unlike wild deer, the Muntjac are significantly smaller and much more friendly. In fact, these traits alone are the very reasons why people are looking to take them into their homes. When fully grown, they are the size of a large house cat and are extremely affectionate. As with most animals in the home, the deer need plenty of love, and lots of room to roam.
Asian Leopard Cat
As you can imagine from the name alone, this animal looks just like a leopard and a cat had an adorable, fluffy and extremely friendly baby. They grow to be only slightly larger than a normal sized house cat, but with their unique look, soft fur, playful demeanor and big doe-eyes, this is not your ordinary house pet. The average cost to own one of these amazing animals is roughly $300.
