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10 alternative pets for animal lovers who dont want a cat or dog
If youre an animal lover who is not partial to a dog or cat, then consider one of these alternative pets that are tried and tested best friends.�
Its worth noting that any animal is an investment of time, money, and affection. Though they might seem like a walking bundle of Instagram-worthy pictures, each animal on this list requires special care and attention.�
Sugar Gliders
The moral line of exotic pet ownership is constantly changing, but at the moment, sugar gliders seem to be on the approved side. Originally from Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, these flying squirrels are often seen curled around their owners hands on social media.�
They bond really well with humans and are highly inquisitive creatures, making them the perfect pet!
Fish
As the nations third favorite pet, over 11 million households own specimens from the world of freshwater fish.
Arguably the biggest positive of owning fish is the ability to individually select the individuals you want. With a range of colors, styles, and sizes to choose from, you really are spoilt for choice.
Some of the most popular species include Betta, Goldfish, Angelfish, Neon Tetras and Swordtails. If youre really fancy, you could even splash out on a small shark!
Guinea Pigs
It is estimated that over 1.5 million American households have Guinea Pigs at home. The tiny bundles of joy and fur make perfect companions and are known to be happier when paired with others of their species.
Compared to some other inclusions, Guinea Pig care and maintenance is incredibly simple. They are even good for reducing your carbon footprint as they can reuse old cardboard, containers, and even vegetable scraps.
Bearded Dragon
Though they dont breathe fire like their mythological counterparts, Bearded Dragons are still the most popular lizard breed in the United States.�They do need specialty kits to thrive, but there is nothing stopping you from buying the majority of stuff second-hand.�
Snakes
Much like fish, there are thousands of snake species, and undoubtedly one to fit your needs. Again, they require specific needs including a vivarium, heating pads, UVB bulbs, and, of course, lots of enrichment in the form of rocks, plants, and toys.
Common pet snakes include Red-Tail Boas, Corn Snakes, Milk Snakes, Kingsnakes, and Ball pythons. Just be sure to check your local pet laws first, as some exotic breeds are banned.
Goats
While pygmy goats are all the rage on TikTok and Instagram, there are a range of sizes and shapes to suit each individual. Experts encourage potential owners to consider females as males tend to be more aggressive, territorial, and stinky!
Goats do require some more expensive veterinary upkeep, but they will pay you back by keeping your lawn short and your bushes trimmed.
Insects
Insect pets are not for everyone, after all, millions suffer from entomophobia, the fear of creepy crawlies. However, due to their relatively short lives, insects can be the perfect transition pet for someone prioritizing low maintenance and overall coolness.
Popular types for pets include beetles, the Praying Mantis, Stick Insects, Leaf Bugs, Millipedes, and roaches. If youre feeling really adventurous, you could also make the jump into the world of spiders and scorpions.
Rabbit
As the world approaches Easter you could be inspired to purchase a bunny rabbit of your own. Much like the Guinea Pig, rabbits are extremely low maintenance and even more cuddly.
Chinchilla
If we were crowning the king of cuddly animals, then that award would undoubtedly go to the Chinchilla, originally from South America. Chinchillas also live between 10 and 20 years, meaning you wont have to say goodbye anytime soon.
Though extremely quiet and fairly clean, Chinchillas do possess the slightly annoying ability of shedding their dense fur. Just be sure to have the vacuum on hand.
Tortoise�
For those living life in the slower lane, the perfect companion could be the humble tortoise.
It is however worth noting that tortoises are less reactive than other pets on this list, meaning they won’t necessarily show you much affection.�
