So you’ve decided on getting a pet, but are allergic to cats or dogs. Or maybe your neighbourhood has some sort of policy against dogs or cats. Or maybe you just want a different pet because you think cats and dogs are to ‘mainstream’. Well you’re in luck – here we’ve got a list of some of the more awesome alternative pets you can sink your teeth into (don’t).
Pot-bellied Pigs
Image via PotBellyPiggies
One of the most charming choices for an alternative pet, pot-bellied pigs are a smaller breed of pigs perfect for domestication. These pigs are quite intelligent, playful, affectionate, and are actually clean and not as stinky as they’re made out to be.
Sulcata Tortoise
Image via Buzzle
These hardy little creatures are rather deceptive when first purchased as newborn sulcata tortoises are roughly the size of a small bun. Over time, a sulcata tortoise could grow as much as a large dog.
Tarantulas
Image via Cute Home Pets
Having a tarantula as a pet will surely freak out a lot of people around you. Tarantulas, however, are rather delicate creatures that are more at risk from humans than humans are at risk from them. These are perfect for eccentric pet owners and apartment dwellers.
Capuchin Monkeys
Image via Takes A Village
Smart, acrobatic, and a bit territorial, the capuchin monkey is a pet that’s rather hard to raise. They are often diapered and clothed, and are bottle-fed – much like raising a human baby.As you can imagine, having a pet monkey would definitely be a lot of fun, so long as you’re willing to put in the time and effort.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
Image via Bug Under Glass
Surprisingly one of the more popular alternative pets these days, the Madagascar hissing cockroach can grow up to 3 inches long and are kept in your standard tank with wood shavings and a secure lid. Due to their hardy nature, the Madagascar hissing cockroach is one of the best pets for a beginner.
Hermit Crabs
Image via Wild Facts
Another popular choice among apartment-dwelling yuppies, the hermit crab is an easy enough pet to keep. They are surprisingly active and affectionate, are very clean to keep, and make for excellent companions.
Ant Farms
Image via Full Spectrum Biology
Ant farms are one of the more entertaining pets to keep around – and they’re easy to maintain too! You can go ahead and purchase an ant farm kit to start an ant farm by yourself, but one of the more exciting aspects of keeping an ant farm is making one yourself.
Capybaras
Image via Animal Talk
The largest member of the rodent family, the capybara resembles a giant guinea pig that walks like a small dog. They have bodies the shape of guinea pigs, and are highly affectionate creatures that make distinct funny noises depending on how they feel. They are rather temperamental, however, making them a choice beginners should skip.
Hedgehogs
Image via Prikol
Many would argue that hedgehogs are perhaps the cutest alternative pets anyone can keep. With their snubby noses, round bodies, and spiky coverings, hedgehogs have grown to be a very popular choice for a pet. They’re also relatively easy to keep, and are most fun to play with.