Examples of animals you can keep as pets include bearded dragons, parrots, Asian palm civets, chacon mares, and garden eels.
Whether you want to own an exotic animal or something more common, there are more pets available than ever before.
Many of these pets require special permits or special training, so depending on where you are in the world, you might want to do a little more research!
Exotic animals that are legal to own as pets in the US
Exotic animals that are legal to own as pets in the US
These animals are legal to own in some states.
Some of them require additional certifications and training to really hold.
Check the latest federal, state and county updates to explore further.
Keeping anteaters is largely unregulated at the federal level, but state and local laws must be considered.
Ferrets can be owned as pets in only a few states, and most of them require you to get a permit.
While big cats are banned in most states, the hit show Tiger King proves that keeping tigers as pets is possible for the determined exotic pet owner!
Porcupines as pets are not regulated in several states.
You can own a fox in only a few states.
In fact, even states like Nevada that allow ownership of animals like elephants, for some reason, strictly regulate foxes as pets.
Boa constrictors are unregulated pets in several states.
Snakes are common pets, so there is a lot of good infrastructure for keeping and caring for snake pets.
Tarantulas are one of the most common exotic pets in the US.
Cougars, like tigers, are heavily regulated in most jurisdictions.
Some states, however, allow you to own them with permits.
As of the date of writing, alligators could be owned in several states, such as Utah.
Two-toed sloths can be owned in many states.
Permits and health certificates may be required.
Most states prohibit the ownership of kangaroos, but some allow it with a permit.
Bears were once owned as pets by a number of colleges who used them as living mascots.
Nowadays you usually need a permit.
Llamas and alpacas are popular pets on hobby farms.
Monkeys are regulated in most states, but capuchins can also be kept as support animals in some situations.
More examples of animals you can have as pets
More examples of animals you can have as pets
African jungle cat
African jungle cat
Scientific name Felis chaus Species of animal Range of mammals Africa Diet of carnivores
The African jungle cat is a medium-sized cat that lives in the grasslands, forests and savannahs of Africa.
It has been reported that some owners have been very successful in training their African jungle cats as pets.
However, they are known to be nervous by nature, so you have to be patient with them.
This means they may not be the best pet for children, but they are very affectionate and friendly to people.
Scientific Name Dasyprocta Animal Species Rodent Range Tropical Rainforest Diet Herbivore
The agouti is a large rodent native to Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
Agutas are often kept as pets due to their relaxed nature and easy care requirements.
Asian civet palm
Asian civet palm
Scientific name Paradoxurus hermaphroditus Species Animal Range Mammal India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan Diet Omnivore
One of the most popular pets in recent years is the Asian palm civet.
Due to their unique appearance, they are very easy to care for and can live up to 15 or 20 years.
They require a bit of space, but they should be kept indoors where they are safe from outside dangers such as large birds of prey that could kill them if allowed outside.
Asian palm civets can feed on a basic diet of fruits and vegetables, but they also like to eat insects.
This makes taking care of them even easier as all you need is some fruit or vegetables every now and then along with plenty of live crickets, mealworms and wax worms available at the pet store.
Fox with ears
Fox with ears
Scientific name Otocyon megalotis Species of animal Mammal Widespread grasslands and savannas Diet Carnivore
This adorable creature is actually a member of the dog family.
They are also known as ‘Foxes on Fleek’ and make great pets.
With their large ears, they can hear well and will let you know if there is danger nearby.
Their name comes from their large ears that stand upright when they are excited or curious.
They are very friendly animals and will love you unconditionally.
Scientific name DriveType of AnimalReptile RangeAustralia Diet Omnivore
Bearded dragons are native to the dry, rocky and hot regions of Australia.
They can grow between 16 to 24 inches in length so they need a large tank as pets.
They are omnivores, so they should be fed vegetables and fruits.
Pet owners must also keep them warm with an appropriate temperature between 75-85°F (24-29°C).
Scientific name Bettongia Animal species Marsupial Range Australia Diet Omnivore
Bettong is a small marsupial native to Australia.
Also known as a boodie, it looks like a cross between a rat and a chipmunk, with a chipmunk thrown in for good measure.
These animals are very social creatures which makes them excellent pets, they like to be around other members of their species.
They are very intelligent creatures and quick learners, so they can be trained.
They also have a natural curiosity which means punters love to explore!
Scientific name Arctictis binturong Species Mammal Range Southeast Asia Diet Herbivore
Biturong, also known as bear cat or “bear cat”, lives in South and Southeast Asia.
The body of the binturong is long and heavy, and they have short legs.
I’m sorry to tell you this, but binturongs are not found in houses or apartments.
Instead, they need a large indoor area with trees and places to climb.
Scientific name Melopsittacus undulatus Animal species Range of birds Worldwide Diet Omnivore
A parakeet is a small parrot that can be found in the wild.
They make great pets but need to be handled regularly or they will become aggressive and fearful.
If you want a pet bird, then the Budgerigar might be for you.
However, it is important to know about their requirements before bringing it into your home.
Scientific name Apoda Animal species Range Amphibian Tropical regions Diet Carnivore
A caecilian is a limbless, burrowing amphibian.
They are often mistaken for snakes or eels due to their snake-like appearance and undulating swimming.
Caecilians are predators that eat earthworms, insects and snails.
They can sometimes be kept as pets, but they need a large terrarium with a deep substrate to burrow in – otherwise they won’t live long!
Scientific name Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Species Mammal Range North and Central South America Diet Herbivore
This is the largest rodent in the world, but they are also one of the gentlest creatures you can have as a pet.
In South America, where these little guys come from, people keep them as farm animals to eat grass all day.
If you have a large yard or farm, this could be the pet for you.
Scientific Name Dolichotis salinicola Animal Species Range Mammal South American Diet Herbivore
This animal is a relative of the guinea pig and is native to South America.
It has stubby legs, small ears that are hidden in fur, large eyes with nocturnal tendencies and looks like a stuffed toy.
Scientific name Nasua nasua Species Animal Range Mammals from Arizona to South America Diet Omnivore
Having a coatimundi as your pet will be a real adventure.
They are very active and intelligent animals, but sometimes they can be mischievous.
Raccoon eating raccoon
Raccoon eating raccoon
Scientific name Procyon cancrivorus Species Animal Range Mammals Central and South America Diet Omnivore
A crab-eating raccoon is not usually kept as a pet, but it can be a great option.
This animal mainly feeds on crabs and other aquatic animals in the wild, so you will need to provide them with fish to feed on.
Scientific name Crossarchus obscurus Species Animal Range Mammals Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia Diet Omnivore
Cusimanse is a small mammal that can be found in West Africa.
It belongs to the same family as mongooses and meerkats, which means it’s not far from being related to your beloved cat or dog.
They are very social animals that enjoy playing with their owners, but they also have a rather independent streak.
Scientific name Octodon degus Animal species Rodent Range Central Chile Diet Herbivore
These little guys are related to chinchillas and look a lot like gerbils.
They are very curious animals that love to explore new things.
Degus can live in groups, but they will need plenty of toys to keep them busy during the day.
They also like to dig and need a deep layer of bedding in their cage.
Scientific NameMadoqua Species Mammal Range East Africa Diet Herbivore
Dik-diks are small antelopes that can be found in the savannas and forests of East Africa.
Dik-diks are only 70 centimeters tall, but they also weigh only 13 pounds.
They live alone or in pairs, where the dominant male is the one who protects his group from predators.
Related article: Does the name Dik-dik sound funny?
Scientific name Philander Animal species Mammal range Central and South America Diet Omnivore
This is an animal that you can have as a pet.
They make excellent pets for people who love exotic animals.
Scientific name Cricetomys gambianus Animal species Rodents Range sub-Saharan Africa Diet Omnivore
Another good pet choice would be the African pouched rat.
It is not as popular as some other animals, but it can make a great pet for those who are willing to take care of it properly.
They have their own specific needs and requirements so you should definitely check them out before buying.
Garden Eel
Garden Eel
Scientific name Heterokonger hassi Animal species Range of fish Indo-Pacific and northwestern Australia Carnivore diet
There are about 800 species of eel and this is one of them.
They can be found in the shallow waters surrounding Florida, where they eat small fish and invertebrates like crabs and shellfish that you can feed your pet.
He should be kept alone as he does not play well with other exotic pets.
They live 35-40 years and grow to an average of 60 cm in length.
Scientific name Leopardus geoffroyi Species Animal Range Mammals Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay Diet Carnivores
Geoffroy’s cat is one of the most common cats in South America.
If you want an active pet, this could be your new best friend.
Scientific name Carassius auratus Animal species Range of fish Diet Omnivore
Fish are great first pets because they can be kept in aquariums and don’t require a lot of work.
Goldfish make good pets because you only need to feed them once or twice a day, but any other fish may need more food depending on how big they are.
However, fish are not cuddly like cats and dogs.
Scientific name Otolemur crassicaudatus Animal species Range Mammal Angola, Tanzania, southern Kenya Diet Omnivore
This animal is also known as the fat-tailed bush baby, which originates from Africa.
It leads a nocturnal life and lives in trees most of the time.
They eat insects like grasshoppers or crickets, but can chew on fruit if necessary!
If you are interested in owning one of these animals, be careful, as they are known for their ability to jump.
Scientific name Cavia porcellus Species of animal Range of rodents in the world Diet of herbivores
Guinea pigs are one of the most popular pets.
They come in a variety of colors and enjoy socializing with people, so they make great friends if you have children.
They are very social animals and live well with other pets, so if you plan to have more than one, they will be great company.
Scientific name Erinaceinae Species of animal Range of mammals Europe, Asia and Africa, and in New Zealand diet Omnivore
A popular choice for many people is the hedgehog.
They are friendly and easy to care for, the only downside being that they don’t like to be handled too much.
Hedgehogs can live up to five years, which means you will have plenty of time with them.
However, some people may find it difficult to get along with a pet that is not very cuddly.
Scientific nameHyracoideaType of animal Mammalian range Africa and Lebanon, Israel Diet Herbivore
Hyraxes, or dassies, are a family of small mammals that look like rodents.
They have rat-like tails and rounded ears on short heads.
These animals are domesticated as pets, but seem to be mostly owned for looks rather than companionship.
Additional ideas for pets
Additional ideas for pets
Living in South Africa, I had the pleasure of seeing most of these animals up close and personal.
When I was younger, I always wanted to be a ranger, but unfortunately, life happens and now at least I can write about them and tell you about my experiences.