Not everyone is a dog or cat person. Luckily, there are a variety of pet options to choose from for those who might be looking for something lower-maintenance or less tactile. The guide below explores some exotic pets your family may be considering, including what food and shelter needs they may have and what care they might require from a veterinarian.

Reptiles

Reptilian pets range from turtles and bearded dragons to pythons. Most live in a glass enclosure with a secure mesh top that allows for steady airflow but won’t let them escape. Since reptiles are cold-blooded, you will most likely need to purchase a UV heat lamp to provide artificial sunlight and to keep them warm. Many reptiles have specific diets of live insects or rodents. Ask a veterinarian about what to feed them and how often as well as what signs of potential illness to watch out for.

Birds

Birds come in all shapes and sizes and are intelligent, trainable pets. They need to have large enough cages to move around in. These will need to be cleaned regularly of waste. Know that birds can be loud, which may cause some disruptions in the household.

While parakeets live up to 15 years, and cockatiels usually live up to 25 years, many other pet birds are long-living. For example, the larger birds can reach the age of 80 and therefore, is a long-term commitment. 

Researching what to feed your bird is also very important. Pelleted food has the best quality of nutrients, but also providing fresh fruits can get you one happy bird. 

Rodents

Rodents are a popular first pet for children, especially docile rodents like Guinea pigs. Guinea pigs live approximately eight years. A long haired guinea pig may need an occasional bath, but you might have to take them to a veterinarian for nail trimmings.

Some rodent pets, like rats, are nocturnal, which can be a problem if you want to spend time with them during the day. However, they are highly-intelligent companions, capable of learning tricks, and they often demonstrate highly distinct personalities. Because they are social, you might consider getting more than one rat of the same gender. Cages should usually be lined with an appropriate substrate; you should also provide your rat with hide-houses, plenty of fresh water, and rat pellets supplemented by leafy greens and fruits.

If your family is thinking of adopting an exotic pet, it’s important to find a veterinarian that can care for their unique needs. A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE, treats a variety of pets, including cats, dogs, birds, small mammals, and reptiles. You can explore their full scope of services on their website, or call (402) 475-2282 to schedule an appointment. Connect on Facebook for more pet care tips.