Cats and dogs usually come to mind when we are talking about pets. But for the more adventurous animal lovers, like my friend Shaun Olmstead, cats and dogs just don’t give much challenge and excitement. For this bunch of pet enthusiasts, the weirder the better! Read on and maybe you’ll find your perfect animal match!
Ferrets
These weasel-like creature clever, affectionate, and fun to have as pets. They are highly energetic, and love to play with a variety of toys, including balls and tunnels. They are often left caged much of the time, but should be let out for exercise on a regular basis. Ferrets are often criticized as being smelly and but that despicable scent can be reduced and almost eliminated by spaying or neutering and descenting the animal.
Snakes
I know these slithery creatures creep some people out, but others can’t help but admire a snake’s beautiful scales and mesmerizing movements. If you think a fuzzy friend is too cute for you, and instead prefer an interesting animal that feeds on live mice, you might want look into snakes. Be aware, though, that snakes can require more upkeep than you’d expect. Reptiles are notoriously difficult pets to keep properly. Although they may not need to be walked regularly, cold-blooded reptiles do require special heat lamps or heated rocks to maintain proper body temperature. Reptiles can also require more specialized diets (ever seen anyone buy a 50 pound bag of snake food at the local grocery store), and veterinarians who specialize in reptiles can be few and far between. Keep this in mind when considering a snake or another reptile like a lizard or iguana.
Guinea pigs
This rodent species took a backseat when the tiny hamster became children’s most preferred first pet. But guinea pigs can be fun and active pets in their own right, and are very easy to care for. They can eat pelleted food supplemented with fresh vegetables. They are an excellent choice as pests for apartment dwellers or if you have limited space to deal with as they can live in cages. Guineas make cute (or annoying, depending on your perspective) squeaking sounds and can become attached to their human companions. They can also play in tunnels or wheels, much like hamsters.
Chill chinchillas
Chinchillas, which look like squirrel-mouse hybrids with furry elephant ears. make beautiful and generally unobtrusive pets. They can be hard to socialize and often remain somewhat aloof, enjoying a quiet environment and responding negatively to loud noises, sudden movements, and drastic changes in the environment. Instead of washing with water, chinchillas bathe in dust or sand. Since chinchillas chew a lot, they need to be provided with chew toys of some sort to meet this need. Large cages are another must for chinchillas; though they’re small, they need space to roam. Chinchillas don’t tend to produce much noise or odor, they can be good indoor animals and present an exotic alternative to rats or gerbils.
Rambunctious rats
Rats are the bane of some people’s existence, but others find the critters both cuddly and clever. If you can stand the sight of those hairless tails and think twitchy noses are cute, rats just might be for you. Rodents are a little easier to care for than reptiles, and fur makes some people a little more accepting of an animal as a pet rather than a pest. Rat lovers claim to be constantly impressed by their pets’ intelligence and ability to figure out new puzzles. Make a maze and see how quickly your rat finds a piece of cheese—you too may be surprised by its wits!
Sweet sugar gliders
Have you always thought squirrels were adorable? Secretly wanted one as a pet? Long no more, as sugar gliders are what you seek. Though not actually related to squirrels, these small rodents bear a resemblance to flying squirrels and are extremely social. They require extensive attention from their human owners or the presence of another sugar glider as a companion. Since these animals need a diet high in fruits and vegetables (and the occasional insect!), sugar gliders may not be an ideal pet for those who just want to pour some pellets in a bowl and call it a day. However, if you’re looking for a sweet and strange little animal, the sugar glider just might be your thing.
Did any of these creatures appealed to you? Analyze your reasons for wanting a pet, ability to care for one, and do extensive research before bringing anyone home. You and your future pet will be happy you prepared well.