Exotic pets?

Question

I'm allergic to cats, but I really want a small, low-maintainance pet. Anybody know of any animals that one wouldn't normally think about to get as a pet?

I really want a pet that is affectionate too. I don't want anything too rodent-like, and I live in an apartment, so dogs are out of the question.

Answer 1

A lot depends on what state you live in as to how exotic your pet can be.. States like CA have stricter regulations on the type of animal you can own. So first I would check into your state laws on the matter.
Some fun animals I would suggest might be a chinchilla, they are extremely low maintenance, and have no odor, but the more time you spend with them, the friendlier they get, although they do have some rodent-esque characteristics. Some people really love ferrets, which are loving animals. Maybe look into a Fennec-Fox, it's a small, desert fox-with big ears similar in size to a small dog, but, smarter, and really adorable. Or a bush-baby. Or for something really unique, a skunk that has had it's scent gland removed, it virtually odorless, and a lot of fun, but there are a lot stricter regulations, on owning those. There's a lot of information about all sorts of animals on the web, so if you hear about anything that sounds interesting, it's easy to find more information, the most important thing is to make sure it's alright to have that type of animal where you live. Good luck!

Answer 2

Guinea pigs make good pets, can be very affectionate,and are low maintenance. You also might consider a fancy rat, gerbil, hamster, or mouse. A rabbit might be a good choice if you don't have young kids around. They tend to be skittish.
Any dog, no matter how small, will be a lot of work, but have you considered adopting a senior dog from a shelter or animal rescue. Older dogs are housetrained, generally don't mind sitting around the house all day, and just want some attention. Just be careful to evaluate the personality of the pet before you adopt. You don't want to get an older dog with a ton of medical problems, either.
I'm told that male black cats cause the most allergic symptoms, while light colored female cats cause the least. You can also keep allergy symptoms down by brusing the cat a lot, vacuuming and dusting frequently, etc.
Hope this helps!


Edit: Well it's going to be hard to find an affectionate pet that isn't a dog, cat, or rodent-like. Rabbits, maybe? or a hedgehog? Most reptilian pets are not affectionate (some you can't even hold).
Have you considered one of the more intelligent birds?

Answer 3

I would recomend looking into a ferret.

Contrary to old beliefs ferrets are very social animals, although not normally considered "cudly".

I now own 3 and they have the run of my house during the day and caged at night.

Most people belive that they are smelly animals and that is not the case now, about 15 years ago it was. Modern practices now desent and neuter or spay the animals shortly after birth. With good diet supliments and additives they actually have less smell than cats or hamsters.

Marshall Farms offers good quailty pets and supplies to most pet suppliers in the U.S.

Ferrets by nature are very curious and playfull creatures. Sometimes to their own demise if the owners are not carefull. And you are assured a laugh everyday at their antics.

With all animals personalities differ, so I recommend observing your choice of animals in a group prior to purchasing any of them ( not just ferrets but hamsters, rabbits, dogs, cats, etc.)

The three I have all have completly different personalities ranging from mischevious to loveable. Fred, my oldest who is now three years old, loves to sleep in the bed with me and the wife untill his bed time when we cage them. He is also the one who will instigate the "tag team attack" of our feet by all three when he wants to play.

Good luck in your search for an exotic pet, but please research any of your choices prior to making a decision to ensure you are ready to make the commitment any pet will require.

Answer 4

Consider a rabbit. I am very allergic to cats and dogs and we have 3 rabbits and I have not problems. They are not low maintence - maybe no pet really is - they need daily care and attention. Ours are so cute and fun that we love giving them attention. they require more than a cat but less than a dog (don't need walking).
why not check out:
House Rabbit Society: http://www.rabbit.org Also check chapter websites as top rabbit professionals advise chapters in their cities.
Rabbit References: http://homepage.mac.com/mattocks/morfz/rabrefs.html
Both also have links to local rescues.

Answer 5

most people will allergies are not allergic to Maltese dogs. Their hair is like human hair that is the difference. My Maltese is just the best thing that ever happened to me with pets. He is a jewel

Answer 6

Small Pets:
Hamsters
Fish
Turtle
Guniea Pig
Gerbil
Rat
Snail << that is a good one
Frog
Porquipine
Low Mantainence:
Snail
Fish
Turtle

Answer 7

DON'T GET A BIRD! I had one for 20 years. It was way more work then I ever realized.

He moved out, he didn't die.

Answer 8

Spiders are affectionate if you treat them good.

Answer 9

hedge hog