What should I consider as my first exotic pet?

I’m looking for a small, furry pet similar to a sugar glider that is legal in the U.S. and easy to obtain. I would love and take good care of it.

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What pets have you owned in the past? Are there any vets in your area that provide general and emergency care? Generally, it’s recommended to have at least $1,000 saved for emergency vet expenses, as costs can increase significantly depending on the type of animal.

Many people get exotic pets like sugar gliders but later find that there are no vets within a five-hour radius who are knowledgeable about them, leaving them unable to get even basic care, let alone emergency treatment, which can lead to tragic outcomes. This situation can also occur with ferrets and other similar animals.

Additionally, where you live can impact the availability of proper food for your pet, as many exotic animals require diets that aren’t available at regular pet stores.

It’s also important to consider any other pets you have, as many exotic animals are prey species and may not thrive in stressful environments. For instance, having a cat or dog could be problematic, depending on the exotic animal.

Finally, many exotic pets need specific temperature and humidity conditions that differ from the norm, so you’ll need a designated space to maintain the appropriate climate for them.

I’m not sharing this to discourage you, but rather to highlight important factors to consider when thinking about getting an exotic pet.

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To add to this a bit:

Sugar gliders can make wonderful pets, but they need very specific care.

I recommend joining the Sugar Glider Groupies on Facebook, as it’s one of the few reputable groups dedicated to gliders. You’ll find a wealth of information there about their care.

I have two breeding pairs and have owned gliders for nearly five years. While they can be fantastic companions, improper care can turn them into a challenge and lead to significant veterinary expenses. Finding a vet who specializes in sugar gliders can be difficult, and it’s not uncommon to have to travel 3 to 5 hours one way to find one who can diagnose and treat them.

Moreover, sugar gliders are social animals and must be kept in pairs; no amount of human interaction can substitute for the companionship of another glider. If they are left alone, they can literally give up, stop eating or drinking, and waste away, leading to severe health issues.

Their cage requirements are similar to those of a medium-sized bird; they need a large and open space to thrive. Unfortunately, there are few suitable products available in stores or online, as their nails can damage many materials. You’ll need to use specific materials, like anti-pill or blizzard fleece, for their cage setup, and it’s essential to find reputable sources for these items. The recommended groups often have lists of trustworthy makers, but some of these items can take a while to produce and may not be cheap. Additionally, certain woods are toxic to gliders, and their diet must consist of specially formulated foods that provide the correct nutritional balance, rather than just fruits, vegetables, and bugs.

Sugar gliders can live for around 15 years, with some reaching up to 18, so they are not a small commitment. They are amazing pets and incredibly fun, and if you can provide them with the right care, they are truly wonderful companions. However, if you can’t commit to giving them the proper care, it’s best not to get one. Making compromises in their care can lead to numerous problems and potentially cost you thousands in vet bills, not to mention the emotional toll.

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I’ve only had hermit crabs and cats, aside from that, not much else.

The other commenter made some excellent points about the challenges of owning exotic pets, but I’ll suggest a few animals that might work for you.

Degus and chinchillas are both readily available, affordable, easy to care for, and easy to feed. As rodents, they’re also relatively easy to find a vet who is comfortable treating them. They provide a unique experience compared to traditional pets without requiring a significant commitment.

While both of these options are manageable, they tend to be less cuddly than many people expect. If you’re looking for a more affectionate or cuddly pet, ferrets or prairie dogs could be a better choice. Just make sure to do your research on both. Prairie dogs need to be socialized from a very young age, and ferrets have specific health concerns to be aware of. I’d consider both of these to be slightly more challenging than degus and chinchillas, but they’re still relatively easy compared to other exotic mammals.

I’ve owned sugar gliders, and they’re wonderful pets, but they need a lot of attention. Their diet includes dry food, protein, fruit, nectar, and water. It’s essential to have at least two gliders together. I kept mine in a 4-foot tall birdcage, but my female glider kept escaping, so we had to add a layer of chicken wire. It seems the females have smaller heads, making it easier for them to slip out. The pair would play with each other all night, and I would spend a couple of hours playing with them as well.

Hedgehogs might be a more low-maintenance option.

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Make sure to check your state laws before making a decision, as they can differ. I have a woodchuck, and my son has a chinchilla.