Have you been thinking about adopting an unusual pet, such as a chinchilla, reptile, or hedgehog? While dogs and cats will likely always be the most popular pets, they aren’t the right match for everyone. However, there are things you want to consider before you get an exotic pet. A Wichita, KS veterinarian lists some of the key ones below.
Life Expectancy
When you adopt a pet, you’re committing to caring for it through its entire life. With some exotics, such as green anole lizards, this is a pretty short-term commitment. Others, such as some turtles, can live to be over 100! Whatever your potential pet’s expected age range is, make sure you’re ready, willing, and able to be in it for the long haul.
Legalities
With some pets, legalities probably won’t be much of an issue. However, the laws for owning some exotic pets can vary quite widely, depending on where you live. Make sure that you’re actually allowed to keep the type of pet you’re interested in. This is also important to consider if there is a chance that you might move.
Habitat
Exotic pets generally require specific habitats, which will need to be carefully set up and maintained to offer the proper living conditions. The lighting, temperature, terrain, and humidity your pet needs will depend on what kind of animal you have. Just be sure to do plenty of research. You’ll also need to make sure that you have room for your pet when they’re fully grown.
Veterinary Care
If you’re getting an exotic, you’ll need a great veterinarian on your team, one that is trained in and experienced with caring for exotic animals. This isn’t just important in the event that your pet gets sick. It’s also good to have a great ally, who can also be a helpful source of information on things like safe and unsafe foods, proper habitat setup, and potential illnesses.
Other Pets
Last but not least, if you have other animals in the house, think about them as well. This isn’t to say that you can’t have a cat and a hedgehog, or a dog and a snake. You’ll just need to keep them away from each other.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your local Wichita, KS veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!