Which exotic pet do you love to cuddle with?
What are pets? Some animals, such as fish, reptiles, and birds, are not very affectionate, but are still considered pets. Many argue that exotic animals in captivity should not be considered pets because they are less affectionate to their owners than domestic animals. However, this is not always the case. Animals that form a special bond with their owners and enjoy cuddling and interacting are distinguished by the term “companion animals”.
Perhaps the most desirable pet is the kind that enjoys the company of humans and delights in cuddling and relaxing in humans. People want companion pets because their love and need reminds them of human babies. Most domestic cats and dogs love to be near their owners. The more popular small pets such as rabbits, ferrets, rats and guinea pigs also show a high degree of affection.
What about more rare and exotic pets? Can these animals, often called “wild animals,” form the same bonds that humans do? There’s no reason why it shouldn’t be deep.
These surrogate animals simply have unique traits that humans are unlikely to perceive as affection. Like exotic animals, cats often get their signals misinterpreted. In fact, cats have more in common with many so-called wild animals than with other domestic pets.
Still, some exotic pets exhibit a clear, reciprocal bond with their human owners that everyone can appreciate.
7 of the most affectionate exotic pets
- Kinkajou
- Kyonshika
- skunk
- Wallaby
- Toucan
- giant flying squirrel
- coatimundi
1. Kinkajo
The kinkajou is a monkey-like raccoon that lives in trees and has similar housing requirements. Also known as the honey bear because it eats nectar and honey, this animal is loved by many. Kinkajou owners find that kinkajou are very interactive and affectionate pets when they are raised by humans from an early age. These animals are very friendly and even show human interest in strangers, which is rare in exotics.
However, there are pitfalls. As with most exotics, the quality of a Kinkajou pet correlates positively with how well it is cared for before even considering buying one. Kinkajou are active, nocturnal animals that need an outlet for energy. If these needs are not met, ‘spontaneous’ aggression can increase.
Kinkajou care tips
- Because kinkajou are nocturnal, kinkajou cages should use very large walk-in kennels or other similar enclosures. Pets need to be interacted with by around 7pm when they wake up, and at bedtime they should have plenty of space and quality time to explore.
- Kinkajou have been reported to “attack” their owners. Inadequate care and pent-up energy can exacerbate these problems, but animals are also expected to have hormone-induced behavioral changes that should be addressed accordingly. Inappropriate behavior requires verbal instructions and immediate termination of the play session. This also applies to other animals.
- Kinkajou are very social in captivity and depend on you for their mental health, especially if kept alone. A properly cared for and socialized Kinkajou will be very affectionate and likely cuddly.
2. Kyonshika
The Chinese deer is a small deer about the size of a medium-sized dog. Some people keep these animals as house pets, but this can be difficult. Like large deer, muntjac can also fly. Carpet is required indoors. Otherwise, walking will be difficult and you will end up looking like Bambi from the famous “ice skating” scene. Munjak needs to chew on everything and can be destructive.
Aside from these issues, they are not very cuddly but affectionate pets. There are many videos showing Kyon loves to “kiss” his owner. Deer, including white-tailed deer, are generally very friendly to humans.
3. Skunk
If you’re looking for an exotic pet that’s easier to care for than most exotic mammals, a skunk is a great choice, but most people will find it more difficult to care for than a standard conventional pet. These animals may intimidate most people due to their stinky reputation, but in captivity they are odorless and can be smart and cute pets if raised properly from a young age.
In captivity, skunks are produced in such large quantities that many different color forms exist. They have an affinity for human companionship, especially if kept alone, and will seek out you for play. There are some important things to consider before buying a skunk.
Skunk Thoughts
- Skunks carry rabies and are illegal in most states. Although the chances of indoor pet skunks contracting rabies are negligible, if a skunk bites or scratches someone and is reported in the media, it will be confiscated for rabies testing and euthanized. .
- A veterinarian with experience with exotic animals should be sought, and spaying/neutering is highly recommended to avoid unwanted urine marking.
- Skunks are mischievous and energetic, so your room should be “skunk-proof” before they can roam freely.
4. Wallaby
Everyone is familiar with kangaroos, and most people with wallabies. Wallabies can be very affectionate pets when bottle-fed and cared for. Wallaby owners typically carry young joeys around in a makeshift pouch or sling to form a real bond with their babies. Wallabies are excellent pets and “surrogate children” for owners who are willing to dedicate their time and care to exotic pets and can arrange spacious outdoor housing. In fact, newborns require the same time and attention that early childhood requires.
5. Toucan
Many birds are very affectionate, and most people are familiar with parrots’ intelligence and high social skills. But toucans (especially the smaller Aracharis) are particularly friendly birds. The Green Aracaris is said to be one of the easiest species of toucan to keep, literally cuddling up to its owner. This is due to the fact that they nest together with flock members in tree crevices. Human-raised Aracaris seek this comfort from their owners, but they may also happily sleep in softly suspended ferret tents.
6. Giant flying squirrel
Much like wallabies, these cute little pocket pets need a bonding period of carrying them around in a pouch for a few hours a day for the first few weeks after birth. If you manage to raise it this way, you’ll end up with a very affectionate pet who genuinely enjoys being around you and running around your clothes. These little rodents will also snuggle up to you. Be careful not to buy flying squirrels with the expectation that they can be left alone like hamsters and gerbils. If the owner does not have enough time for squirrels, he should keep at least two squirrels or choose another species.
7. Coatimundi (Coily)
The Coatimundi is a rather large, 10-pound carnivore that needs a good-sized enclosure and constant care to become affectionate, which most people find ‘cuddly’. However, if raised correctly, these animals are definitely affectionate. In the wild, coati males act alone, and females live in groups called bands, but in captivity, both males and females are full of curiosity, play with humans, and seek companionship. As with any animal on this list, owners can become frustrated when their energy hoards due to lack of space or attention.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not a substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescribing or formal, individualized advice from a veterinarian. Animals showing signs or symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
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LANE November 27, 2018:
love your job
Eric Farmer From Rockford, IL, February 16, 2018:
I had never heard of a sika deer, nor had I ever considered having one as a pet.
Sharl Erso Farmer February 8, 2018:
I’ve always wanted a skunk as a pet and have the patience to train one, but what will happen? Has anyone owned one in HB?
Mark dos Anjos, DVM From the Atlantic Rainforest, Brazil, February 7, 2018:
Yes, there is a lot of debate about this as most carnivores also eat plants and many “herbivores” will not refuse meat when they find it. I saw a video of deer eating meat after a wildfire.
Melissa A. Smith (Author) From New York, February 7, 2018:
Ok, change. Most “carnivores” eat plant material anyway, which is confusing.
Mark dos Anjos, DVM From the Atlantic Rainforest, Brazil, February 7, 2018:
Manneut — If she was referring to the coati taxonomy, she would have said, “They are Carnivora.”
Mannewt February 7, 2018:
Dr. Mark, I think she was referring to the carnivores that are in that taxon.
Mark dos Anjos, DVM From the Atlantic Rainforest, Brazil, February 7, 2018:
Hi Melissa I love your list, but coati are omnivorous, both in the wild and in enclosures.