From cute and fuzzy to spikey and scaley, these weird pets are sure to make life fun. Now, let’s break down the list of 30 unique pets you can own.

We’ll talk about what makes each of them unique, their personality, maintenance difficulty, cost, and if they are legal to own.

Please note that every country, state, and city has different laws about exotic pet ownership. You must make sure your dream pet is legal in your area and that it was imported legally. We do not condone pet trafficking or obtaining them illegally. Do your research before you decide to buy or adopt an exotic pet, and make sure they come from a reputable breeder or source.

If you’re looking for more to read after this article, then head on over to our Pet Resources list!

30 Weird Pets That You Can Keep in Your Home

1. Hedgehog

Ever thought of adopting a hedgehog? These adorable creatures with brush-like spikes make great weird pets and are excellent companions. They are small and easy to care for as long as you are conscientious.

Personality

Hedgehogs are quiet, active, and don’t crave human attention. Not great cuddlers, these guys are still gentle. Frequent handling is key to socializing your hedgehog. They require at least a b it of warmth and affection as any other animal, even though they might not have ways to show it.

Cost

Hedgehogs can cost from $75 to $250

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

It’s legal to own a hedgehog in most states around the United States. However, it’s illegal in Pennsylvania, Hawaii, California, Georgia, Arizona, and Maine. You may be able to own one if you have a permit in these states. However, check your local laws for more information.

2. Bengal Cat

These beautiful hybrid kitties are about the size of a domestic cat and get along well with other cats and dogs. They don’t require special care. However, they must be indoor-only pets. They can also get very pricy when compared to your usual cat breed, which is a reason for their global fame.

Personality

Bengal cats are quite smart and affectionate. They have a lot of energy and require exercise or at the very least a climbing tree or toys to keep them busy. Compared to most other breeds, Bengals are known to enjoy the water. Additionally, they are widely considered to be exceedingly sweet and loving. The Bengal is a dedicated athlete that loves to keep moving.

Cost

Bengal cats and kittens can cost between $400 and $10,000

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Bengals are illegal to own in New York, Georgia, Iowa, Alaska, Hawaii, Delaware, Connecticut, Indiana, Seattle, and Denver, Colorado.

3. Pygmy Goat

Pygmy Goats can make excellent pets because of their small size. They are easy to manage and pretty friendly to humans. They are low maintenance, as long as you have room and keep them entertained with food, toys, and an enclosure for them to play in and climb. A lot of people claim they’re great companions to children.

Personality

Pygmy Goats, like dogs and cats, have distinct personalities. However, in general, they are a friendly bunch. Most are good-natured and docile but can be stubborn and independent. They hate water, so don’t get them near it. It’s important to mention that Pygmy Goats are not solo pets and thus need companionship for risk of falling into a depression. Get a companion for them!

Cost

Pygmy Goats can cost from $40 to $70.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Pygmy Goats are legal to own in all states and might be considered livestock.

4. Chanterelle Fennec

Known as the desert fox, these cute fur babies are small and beautiful. You can quickly train them to use a litter box, and they are pretty clean animals. However, they do require special care and socialization, just like most weird pets on this list.

Personality

Chanterelle Fennecs behave much like dogs and are quite social. They are very active and agile and can get quite loud with their high-pitched sounds. A little-known fact is that they are nocturnal animals. Fennecs are quite jittery and can easily get scared or startled. Some like to amusingly say they behave as if they’ve had too much coffee.

Cost

A Chanterelle Fennec will cost about $1,500 to $2,000.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

It is illegal to own Fennec foxes in Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, and Washington. States like Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Texas will allow you to own a fennec. However, they will require either a permit or a health certificate.

5. Bush Baby

Bush Babies are nocturnal tree-dwelling primates and are about the size of a squirrel. Their small size make them a tempting pet option. Not to mention they are adorable. They are quite agile and love to leap from tree to tree.

Personality

Bush Babies are quite sweet and have big, but mellow personalities. They love to play and prefer high-placed toys, like swings or hammocks. Although you could adopt a Bush Baby for yourself, in truth, they do not make the best of pets. They had a habit of crying out during the middle of the night, scratching you with their sharp claws and fangs (as they are hard to tame), and to make matters worse, their urine has a very pungent smell that you won’t easily get out of furniture. If you’re prepared to deal with all of that, though, then they could be adorable pets.

Cost

Bush Babies can cost around $5,000 to $8,000, plus an enclosure.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

They are considered exotic pets and fall under the primate category. They are illegal to own in most states. However, states like Nevada, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan will allow you to own primates and may require a permit.

6. Raccoon

Raccoons can be fun weird pets and feel very much like having a large ferret or puppy, but they can also be a little mischievous. Keeping a raccoon as a pet can be more than a bit challenging, depending on your raccoon’s temperament. More often than not, they’re liable to cause a great amount of trouble and should rarely be considered a pet by anyone other than experienced animal trainers.

Personality

Raccoons are intelligent, active, and quite social. However, they are nocturnal animals and can become destructive and unpredictable. They don’t do well in cages but can be litter trained and taught commands, much like a dog or a cat.

Cost

Buying a raccoon can cost you between $300 to $500, but be prepared to spring for an indoor/outdoor enclosure or childproof your home if you plan on letting it roam around your house.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

It is illegal to own raccoons in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, and Massachusetts.

7. Chinchilla

Chinchillas are nocturnal and are most active at night while being pretty quiet during the day. So, a quiet spot is ideal for them. They don’t like change, so it’s best to create a routine so your Chinchilla can thrive.

Personality

Chinchillas are playful and active creatures. They are pretty gentle, and the more you handle them, the stronger they will bond with you. However, they don’t like to be cuddled and will express their affection in other ways.

Cost

Chinchillas can cost between $80 and $150.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

As long as the chinchilla is obtained legally and not captured from the wild, you can own one legally in most states.

8. Chestnut-Spotted Genet

Genets are not cuddly by any means, but they are weird pets that require special care.

Personality

They are nocturnal, solitary animals, known to be quite agile and quick. They don’t get along with other genets but do seem to get along with both dogs and cats, mainly if they have grown up with them. Don’t place them with smaller pets, like hamsters or reptiles, because they will become food pretty fast. Be prepared to make a lifetime commitment, as they can live for about 20 years.

Cost

Chestnut-Spotted Genets can cost around $900 to $1,400.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

There are no specific states that ban the Chestnut-Spotted Genet. However, they may fall under exotic pet laws and will vary by state. Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland, South Carolina, and Georgia have strict exotic pet laws.

9. Sugar Glider

Sugar gliders are small and cute furry creatures. They are quite intelligent and can learn their name and be trained to do small tricks. They do require a lifelong commitment of 10 to 15 years and lots of space and attention. They also need special care and diet. They are relatively clean animals, but potty training them will be difficult.

Personality

They are playful and sweet, and human interaction is essential. Sugar gliders are social and love being with other sugar gliders. They are pretty vocal and will let you know when they are not happy. You shouldn’t let them leave alone and should thus pair them. Otherwise, they’re going to get depressed. Furthermore, they have a propensity towards chewing everything in their path, so you might want to hide your cables.

Cost

Sugar Gliders can cost $200 to $500.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

It is illegal to own Sugar Gliders in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Utah.

10. Muntjac Deer

These adorable deer are among the easiest pets to have as they only reach the size of a medium dog. They are considered to be the cleanest of all deer and compact enough to be indoors. However, I guess that depends on how tolerant you are. The good news though – their droppings have very little odor. So there is that.

Personality

They are very friendly and affectionate, and well-mannered enough to get along with other pets. They even give kisses. They are shy at first, but quickly warm up, and you can also train them. Not a very good choice for an exotic pet if you only have an indoor enclosure, though.

Cost

A Muntjac Deer can cost you anywhere from $600 to $1,400. Males tend to cost more.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

There are no specific states that ban the Muntjac Deer. However, they may fall under exotic pet laws and will vary by state. Some states have strict exotic pet laws.

11. Skunk

Skunks are wonderfully weird pets as long as they are disarmed, meaning their scent glands are removed at an early age to avoid getting sprayed. Skunks need a play area, and they are natural diggers.

Personality

Quite intelligent, skunks can be stubborn and headstrong. They are, however, friendly, playful, and lovable. They are curious creatures and love to swipe things to soften their bets.

Cost

A skunk can cost you about $150 to $500.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Wild skunks are not legal to own, but it is currently legal to own domesticated skunks in Alabama, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Most will also require a permit.

12. Squirrel Monkey

Squirrel Monkeys are adorable acrobatic creatures that make a fun companion. They are small and playful, but be prepared to make a lifelong commitment of about 25 years.

Personality

Squirrel Monkeys are social, friendly, and can be trained. However, they can also be quite mischievous. They are fun to have around but do require lots of attention.

Cost

Squirrel monkeys can cost between $4,000 to $8,000.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Currently, pet monkeys are allowed in Washington State, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Alabama, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

13. Kinkajou (Flower Bear)

The Flower Bear is small and adorable. They require an exceptional owner and a lifelong commitment of 20 to 25 years because they will bond with you and don’t adapt well to environment changes. They are nocturnal creatures.

Personality

If raised from birth, they can be quite tame and lovable. They are active and curious, which means they are also mischievous and will get into anything. They will bond with their humans and do not adapt to new owners quickly.

Cost

Kinkajous can cost anywhere between $750 to $3,000, plus enclosure, spay and neuter, and food.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

There are no specific states that ban the Kinkajou. However, they may fall under exotic pet law, which varies from state to state. Check out the states that have strict exotic pet laws.

14. Flying Squirrel

Flying squirrel are adorable gliding creatures that are fun to own. However, they do require special care. They love to climb and glide, so supervision is needed, and they are not ideal for homes with kids. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and require a lot of space.

Personality

Flying squirrels are highly active but have fun personalities. They can be very loving and bond with their human.

Cost

Flying squirrels can cost about $125.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Flying squirrels are legal to own in Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Washington. You need a permit in Arizona, Delaware, Indiana, Florida, Maine, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah (Northern Flying Squirrels only), West Virginia, and Wyoming.

15. Mini Donkey

Mini Donkeys are sweet, friendly, and affectionate towards their humans. Although they are called mini, they are anything but that. Mini Donkeys still grow to about 3 feet tall and can weigh up to 350 pounds. They thrive in pairs, so if you are thinking about getting one, you better make it two.

Personality

They are incredibly affectionate and intelligent. They love people and will care for their family, much as a dog would. They are quickly trained and playful.

Cost

A Mini Donkey will cost you about $200 to $500.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

Mini Donkeys are legal to own almost anywhere. However, city laws may vary and they may be considered livestock.

16. Pot Bellied Pig

Pot Bellied Pigs are friendly and make great weird pets. They require a lot of attention and a lifelong commitment since most live for about 20 years. They are pretty intelligent and bond with their human.

Personality

They are smart, sensitive, and very trainable, but can require a lot of your time. They are curious and playful, so can become easily bored. They are also headstrong and territorial and can become destructive if not given the proper attention.

Cost

Pot Bellied Pigs can cost between $600 to $800.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

Pot Bellied Pigs are legal to own almost anywhere, but city laws may vary. They may be considered livestock.

17. Hyacinth Macaw

This jet-blue parrot native to Central and South America is one beautiful bird. It’s the largest of the Macaw species. They are known as gentle giants and make a fine pet for highly experienced owners. They have a lifespan of 50-60 years, so be sure you are ready for a commitment.

Personality

Hyacinth Macaws are very affectionate and love playing with toys. They are highly intelligent, and they tend to chew uncontrollably, so keep toys and treats that are safe for them to chew on around. These guys are filled with endless energy and can be quite loud and nippy.

Cost

A Hyacinth Macaw can cost you around $40,000 USD., plus an enclosure with plenty of space.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Hyacinth Macaws are legal to own in most states as long as they are obtained legally, are not illegally imported or stolen, and you fill in the proper documentation. Remember these birds are still considered endangered, so you might have some difficulty finding one.

18. Wallaroo

This kangaroo-looking marsupial is larger than wallabies but smaller than kangaroos. They bond with their owners, primarily if they are raised from birth. Native to Australia, these shaggy guys are rarely found as pets in other countries, but it’s not unheard of.

Personality

Wallaroos are shy and can take some time to warm up. Early socialization is vital and can take some time. Once they feel welcome, they are friendly, playful, and affectionate. They can be quite mischievous and if not adequately trained, can cause damage to property. Attention and plenty of playtime are essential.

Cost

A Wallaroo can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000, but be prepared to fork over some cash for a proper living space, and anywhere from $200-$400 a month for food.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

There are no specific states that ban the Wallaroo. However, they may fall under exotic pet laws that vary by state. States like Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington, and Georgia have strict exotic pet laws.

19. Llama

Llamas are all the rage these days, and why wouldn’t they be? These cute animals make excellent weird pets and can be easily trained. They usually live between 15 – 30 years, so they are a commitment. Plus, they can get quite large, so make sure you have enough room to spare.

Personality

Llamas are social, calm, and gentle giants. They are known for spitting, but it’s usually between llamas or when they have not been socialized properly. Llamas can be loud and make strange sounds.

Cost

Getting a llama can cost around $1,500 to $20,000.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Llamas are legal to own almost anywhere. However, city laws may vary. They may be considered livestock.

20. Capybara

Known as the giant hamster, this large rodent can be very sweet and friendly. They are incredibly social but have special needs. They require water available for them to swim in and an enclosure that allows plenty of room to spread out and get some sunshine.

Personality

Capybaras are quite social and do better in pairs or groups. They are intelligent and affectionate.

Cost

Capybaras can cost you around $1,100, but be prepared to spend more on vet bills and about 6 to 10 pounds of food a day.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Capybaras are legal to own in Texas and Pennsylvania. Others states where they are legal may require a permit. There are no specific states that ban the Capybaras. However, they may fall under exotic pet laws, and some states have strict exotic pet laws.

21. Southern Tamandua

Commonly known as an anteater, this weird pet is a solitary one, but is quite loving and makes a great companion. They are costly to maintain. They also love to climb from tree to tree and require a lot of space.

Personality

South Tamanduas are not social with other animals. They prefer to live alone and be the only pet. They are quite loving but beware because those large claws cause some damage.

Cost

A Southern Tamandua can cost anywhere between $3,000 to $8,000, plus a large enclosure.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

There are no specific states that ban the Southern Tamandua. However, they may be considered exotic pets so check states that have strict exotic pet laws.

22. Axolotl

These salamander-like pets are not as common but can be easily enjoyed as some of the weirdest pets. They are not the cuddly kind and cannot be interacted with outside of the water. They should not be handled unless necessary, but they are pretty unique and kind of cute. They are also super low maintenance.

Personality

Axolotls are delicate creatures that are not social, so keeping them housed separately is ideal.

Cost

An axolotl can cost you between $20 to $35, plus a standard housing start kit for $85.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Axolotls are legal to own in most states, except for Maine, California, New Jersey, and Virginia. In New Mexico, they are not illegal to own, but illegal to import from other states.

23. Piranha

Piranhas are usually viewed as aggressive fish with teeth-filled mouths. While that is somewhat true, Piranhas are quite small, averaging 10 inches in length, and only normally eat other fish. They are pretty low maintenance and can get you some serious street cred. I mean, someone who owns a Piranha has to be a badass. Talk about weird pets!

Personality

They do better when kept in a group of four or more, and are less skittish when provided with a tank with plenty of hiding spots.

Cost

It can cost from $4 to $500 to buy a Piranha.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

It is legal to own piranhas in Michigan, New Hampshire, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Tennessee, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

24. Stick Insect

The name says it all with this one. Yes, the stick insect looks like a stick and it can measure anywhere between half an inch to 13 inches in length. They mimic their surrounding colors, but usually, are brown or green. Native to North America, the stick insect thrives in forests and grasslands. However, they make great weird pets too.

Personality

Stick insects are not the cuddly kind, but they are quiet, they won’t chew or scratch your furniture, and they’ll never pee on your carpet. They need special care as they are fragile and do not tolerate extreme temperature changes.

Cost

A stick insect can cost you around $70. However, you will also have to invest in a large enclosure with fresh foliage and proper ventilation.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Stick insects are legal to own and not challenging to come by.

25. Turtle

If you’re more of a reptile lover, turtles are probably the best way to go. Most are a petite size and can make great pets. They are low maintenance but do require special care.

Personality

They tend to be quiet and shy. They can also be smart and identify their feeding times. Turtles can be sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, and vibrations.

Cost

A turtle can cost between $30 to $100 depending on the species. They will need a proper enclosure with access to water.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Turtles are legal to own in most states. However, some states in the US have made it hard because they can harbor deadly bacteria, including salmonella. Check your local city laws.

26. Hermit Crab

This weird pet makes for an exciting companion. They are pretty low maintenance as long as you fulfill their unique care needs. Hermit Crabs require an aquarium with adequate space and high levels of humidity.

Personality

Hermit crabs are active, curious, and have distinct personalities They are friendly and quiet.

Cost

Hermit Crabs cost between $2 and $40.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Hermit Crabs are legal to own.

27. Green Iguana

Green Iguanas are quite a common pet. They are quiet and pretty easy to keep. However, they do require a lifelong commitment. They can grow quite large and need to be handled regularly. Human contact is essential and can help prevent them from becoming aggressive.

Personality

Most iguanas are docile and pretty lazy. However, they still have sharp claws and spiky tails, which can cause harm.

Cost

Green iguanas can cost from $50 to $100.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

Most states allow legal ownership.

28. Bearded Dragon Lizard

One of the most popular reptile pets to own, bearded dragon lizards don’t require much attention and are pretty easy to care for. However, they do need an enclosure with special lighting to keep them warm.

Personality

Generally docile and rarely show aggressive behavior. They are pretty easy going.

Cost

A Bearded Dragon Lizard can cost you $30 to $60.

Difficulty

Low Maintenance

Legality

They are legal to own in most states.

29. Boa Constrictor Snake

Boa Constrictors are beautiful reptiles and unique, weird pets. They are pretty impressive, but it’s essential to make sure you can handle a reptile of this size before getting a Boa Constrictor. They also require a lifelong commitment of 25 – 30 years.

Personality

Boa Constrictors that are bred in captivity are quite docile and solitary animals. They can, however, be aggressive and hiss if they feel threatened.

Cost

Boa Constrictors can cost $60 to $200.

Difficulty

Intermediate Maintenance

Legality

Boa Constrictors are legal to own in most states. However, legality varies down to city ordinances, so check your city and state laws.

30. Crocodile

Whey do crocodiles make great pets? They DON’T! Of course, we had to throw a crazy one in there. While you can certainly consider a pet crocodile as your next pet, it’s probably not the best idea. However, it’s not unheard of. They can be quite aggressive and require at least a 10-year commitment. They also need a hefty food budget.

Personality

These guys are known to be aggressive and short-tempered. Most are pretty shy and reclusive.

Cost

A crocodile can cost from $75 for a ten-month-old to $1,100 for a young adult.

Difficulty

High Maintenance

Legality

Considered an exotic reptile, most states might not let you legally own a crocodile as a pet. However, to be able to keep a crocodile, you must get a permit to keep protected wildlife. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service gives states the liberty to manage legality, so the laws vary from state to state.

Conclusion

Owning weird pets can be a fun experience, but it can also be a challenge. Most require special care, diet, or both, and all require attention. Having an exotic pet can also cost you a pretty penny. Although some are not expensive to purchase or adopt, their care, food, enclosures, and vet costs can set you back a few hundred if not thousands of dollars.

They also require a lifelong commitment. So, if you are in the market for weird pets, take into consideration that you will have to care for them for years to come. Moreover, be sure to acquire your pet legally and from a reputable source. What are your thoughts on crazy weird pets?