I really enjoy petting and interacting with animals, but I know not all animals are into that. I’m curious if there are exotic pets that love being pet or held. Even if it depends on their gender or personality, I’d like to hear your experiences.
If you’ve owned an exotic pet or know someone who has, and they enjoy being cuddled, please share! Just so it’s clear, I’m not planning on rushing into getting a pet—I just want to learn more so I can decide in the future.
I used to have a big Argentinian Tegu, and he loved getting head scratches. He’d even raise his back like a cat when he was happy. He knew his name and would come when called.
But he wasn’t as friendly with my dad, who took care of him most of the time. Some reptiles can be affectionate, but it often depends on their personality.
Patagonian maras can be very affectionate if they’re socialized from birth. If they aren’t handled a lot as babies, they’ll usually stay nervous and distant.
Woodchucks are surprisingly affectionate. Mine used to wrap their paws around my leg and look up at me, asking to be picked up. They loved snuggling too!
Rats are amazing pets, and of course, dogs love attention too.
Nori said:
Rats are amazing pets, and of course, dogs love attention too.
I’ve heard rats are super smart! I knew someone who trained his rats to fetch things for him. They sound like fun little companions.
I’d love to share a picture, but I can’t figure out how to upload it here.
Ferrets can be really affectionate, especially neutered males. They love attention, and many enjoy being scratched or even going for walks. Some ferrets are hyperactive, but others are super cuddly.
I run a small ferret rescue, so I always suggest people visit a rescue to see if ferrets are a good match. If you’re ready, adopt one that’s already used to human interaction. Ferrets between 6 months and 3 years old are usually the best for first-timers. Older ferrets can be extra cuddly but often have serious health issues.
Oh, and about the smell—ferrets don’t stink as much as people think! If they eat a good diet, don’t get bathed with soap, and have clean living spaces, they smell fine. Baths actually make them produce more oils and smell worse, so avoid giving them baths with soap!
@Sam
Also, ferrets do best in pairs. They really thrive when they have another ferret buddy to play with, so don’t separate bonded ones.
Sam said:
@Sam
Also, ferrets do best in pairs. They really thrive when they have another ferret buddy to play with, so don’t separate bonded ones.
My mom had two ferrets, and they were so funny! They were little thieves and would steal random things like onions or guitar picks.
She let them roam freely at home, and they had such big personalities. She even got a mini tent for them, and they loved sleeping in it. In winter, she’d bring snow into the bathtub for them to play with.
We once caught them rolling a tiny watermelon down the hall! And when she moved, we found their secret stash spots where they’d hidden all sorts of things. Ferrets are amazing, but you do need to be careful—they can slip into places like the oven or dishwasher without you noticing.