30 Exotic Low Maintenance Cool Pets That Are Legal To Own

Have you ever wondered, how can you get your hands on some unusually exotic pet animals that can be part of your life?

Well you’re at the right place, so get ready to know some mysterious and incredibly awkward looking creatures from our blue planet that can be kept as cool pets.

Some people just don’t have the stomach for the usual cat and mouse animals, but prefer the challenge and thrill of owning something unique and rather eye-catching. It’s a great way to feed your exotic animal fetish and hobby-ish nature.

If you ever thought owning some exotic pets would be a colossal nightmare in care and possession, you would be surprised to know that the animals mentioned below are actually being kept as pets.

Note: It is your duty to ensure that you and your dream pet live in legal harmony according to your state law.

Here is the List of 30 Exotic Low Maintenance Cool Pets That Are Legal To Own.

Bearded Dragon Lizard

Low Maintenance: Yes

Hold on, don’t be disgusted out just yet. The dragon lizard, tends to look like something out of The Hobbit but in reality, they are one of the gentlest reptiles out there. Despite their looks and being very strange animals, they love to be fondled and enjoy the occasional misty showers.

Often kept in glass aquariums, they are diurnal i.e. stay up during day and sleep at night. So you can watch them when you’re awake! Dragon lizards show great temperaments and can be handled so well, in fact even children can play them as well! Supervised of course.

Let’s face it, a selfie with this sucker on the shoulder is a definite eye-popper.

Chinchilla

Low Maintenance: Yes

Aww! Look at the face, isn’t that just the cutest. The Chinchilla’s make a really good house pet for the average small family. The name though, sounds more like a Mexican drink off the bar. Keeping that Mexican energy note, these rodents are perky little energy balls making good pets for for teens and above.

Being light weight and very fragile, the Chinchilla’s zip like flash if left loose in the house. They are however very sensitive to, too tight of grips and can bite if provoked. The good part of these best pets, is their thick layer of fur and hardly any sound. Proving to be some excellent low maintenance pets.

Hedgehog

Low Maintenance: Yes

They make rather unusual pets in appearance, People often mistake these intelligent and small animals as a ‘Hole creator’ in their hands. Forgetting they only stiffen their spines when they feel threatened. Otherwise, they are a humble and strictly mind their own business pets, easily comparable to hamsters.

Despite their sensitivity to surroundings, Hedgehogs are usually shy creatures. They tend to develop good personality, through greater owner interaction, requiring a lot of time and commitment. Expect to bond with your pet like you would with an infant. Now isn’t that just so adorable.

Crocodile

Low Maintenance: No

Crickey! They are popular animals, If you remember the crocodile hunter Steve Irvin from Australia, you know very well what these things can grow up to be. Unlike lizards, which are tamed and less harmful, crocodiles tend be the same up until they are the same size.

I could keep exotic animals as pets but a crocodile – no. They eventually grow out their enclosures and require more space and food as size and age increases exponentially.

You can never turn your back on a crocodile and keeping this reptile is a specialist job undoubtedly. You should ask the people, how everyday a crocodile is swimming in their backyard pools. Now that is frightening, yikes!

Fish Piranha

Low Maintenance: No

If you have watched The Piranhas 3D, you would realize what they are capable of doing. Unlike the movies showing complete bizarreness, piranhas however are very feisty carnivorous fast moving fish.

If you’re into gentle fish love loving nature, then piranhas are not meant for you. Usually they are the wolves of the river, normally hunting in a pack. So, if you’re planning on getting some unique pets as piranhas, get three and above.

Oh yeah! Don’t go on feeding them with your hand, piranhas love hunting live fish, though they never say no to the occasional worms and insects. However, piranhas do require maintenance, proving to be very messy eaters and not really the best pets for kids .

Scorpion

Low Maintenance: Yes

Let’s face it, they tend to make very unique pets and look like something out of the devils nightmare. Before I even begin, scorpions hold a lot of physiological power that comes associated with their sight. Astrologically – Often resembling strength, is a strong reason for owners to keep as their preferred best exotic pets.

Scorpions can sting from their stinger, and definitely hurt their owners. Unlike others, scorpions are a definite no show for children, requiring expert care and handling from experienced individuals. Despite their unappealing looks, scorpions can be found easily in various pet shops.

John David

Boa Constrictor Snake

Low Maintenance: Yes

This is a heart attack for me, or any other woman. Get ready to lose your girlfriend, if you have one of these bad boys in your house. Unlike most snakes of the world, Boas are constrictors that means they are large and non-poisonous and kill through strangling around their prey. Despite being weird pets, they are quite popular animals among enthusiasts.

Boas tend to grow past the 5 feet mark, more depending on the species. Considering the size, the weight will grow accordingly as much. Since Boas are amazon based, the enclosures for them are required to be high and heated to best mimic their natural habitat.

Mexican Red-Legged Tarantula

Low Maintenance: Yes

Though many would call them creepy and run away instantly, Tarantulas and in specific the Mexican Red-legged one is one very beginner species kept in captivity for pet use. There striking features are vibrant orange knees contrasted with a black body.

They show good temperament, and usually like to run away as the first line of defense. Despite being docile, they tend to be a little skittish at times and can show aggression if provoked.

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

Low Maintenance: Yes

You have got to be kidding me? These things can be pets. Not happening in my world. But hey look at this way, they will replace dogs as the most loyal pet post a nuclear holocaust, since they can survive one.

The cockroach, despite its displeasing appearance is quite popular among enthusiast for being docile and hardy in nature. Having a strong exoskeleton, allows for it to be tough as well, thank God it doesn’t have any wings, otherwise it would have definitely taken over the world.

Green Iguana

Low Maintenance: No

Another reptile on the list, we are pleased to inform you which doesn’t move so soften. Having a very slow moving speed will almost make it appear to be a plastic model. You will find the iguana usually spending time relaxing, sun basking and watching you with its deep spooky eyes.

What a surprise, they are Herbivorous! I thought Godzilla’s distant cousin would be a meat eater. Looks like being vegan is the new fad even among reptiles!

Hermit Crab

Low Maintenance: Yes

If girls remember the crab Sebastian from Ariel, they will definitely want one in the form of the Hermit Crab, they make excellent first pets to be kept in an aquarium for children. But be advised, marine life is very sensitive and requires precision care.

Though you will find loads in your local pet shop, once bought you do need them to be in a large enough aquarium for optimal comfort and prevention from imminent death through suffocation. Hermit Crabs require high levels of humidity in their enclosure which is usually not maintained.

Bush Baby

Low Maintenance: Yes

Nothing can be more aww inspiring than gazing in those deep brown eyes. This tree dwelling marsupial from Africa is very agile and made for the tree branches. The last thing these small animals will expect is a small tight cage to be in.

Bush Baby’s require wide open branched type areas to live in their own with the least stress. Though most house owners are not able to provide the environment. It’s advised this animal stays in the zoo, where it can’t be endangered.

Southern Tamandua

Low Maintenance: Yes

If you have a backyard with an infestation of a lot of ant and termite mounds, well in that case there can be no better natural exterminator than the Southern Tamandua, basically an anteater.

Anteaters are very cute looking, from their pencil necked pointy faced cuddliness. Trust me, if you had a dog lick you, the Tamandua’s tongue will be longer than expected and make your face sticky as a glue stick. They are very attention seeking animals and show varying moods if neglected.

Flying Squirrel

Low Maintenance: No

If you have an admiration for squirrels, a glider version will be even better. They love to run on their wheel. Considering the environmental policy, a permit is required if you wish to own this type of animal.

No matter the diet, the glider requires fresh fruits and nuts for healthy functioning. Their high metabolism requires nutrient rich food, which can be found in only fresh foods. They make very good pets but if you really want to see them glide, let them climb high up and then see them glide to the next tree.

Kinkajou (Flower Bear)

Low Maintenance: Yes

Hailing from the rain forests of central South America, the kinkajou comes from the raccoon family. So expect them to be the annoying types and give you a headache if not acquainted with. Considered to be very exotic and bred for private use, the kinkajou tent to be rather friendly.

Even though they are solitary, they are vocal animals. So expect the house to be running a bit high on volume. People consider them to be very social and specially their interaction with their owners. Kinkajou love having fresh fruits, figs, and flower nectar.

Chanterelle Fennec

Low Maintenance: No

Unlike other foxes, the Fennec is a very small fox species, but sits very comfortably in between a big cat and a small dog. The exotic animal can be enjoyed by the entire family and expect itself to show the same alertness and excitement as of a cat and the same fun and playfulness as that of a very active dog.

They are full of energy creatures that are going to tire you out. So expect to share some time and muscle power with your pet.

Mini Donkey

Low Maintenance: Yes

A mini donkey is a very funny, comical and affectionate joy to own. Having a bad reputation for being dumb is not the case here, as they boast a solid memory that they use to build lasting relationships with their owners for obvious reasons like any pet animal – attention.

Like any donkey, they are however very stubborn and will not do what is required, if they are not in the mood. Being quite animals, other than the occasional ‘he haw’ is heard. Mini donkeys are popular animals as they make good pets for kids due to their size and gentle nature.

Axolotl

Low Maintenance: Yes

Our next animal is like something out of a bad alien thought. Proving to be very weird pets, the Axolotl is a type of a salamander that originates from Mexico. The Axolotl is able to regenerate any part of its body in due time, ideal if you have any other feisty creatures the holding aquarium.

They grow to be quite large and most often require specialized care and equipment for its enclosure, otherwise it’s an okay pet for people with a taste in unique pets.

Monkey

Low Maintenance: No

Monkeys tend to be very adorable and are often very cute looking. Baby monkeys cling to their mothers and appear so helpless, which often ads to their admirable features.

Monkeys irrespective of a selective type are very intelligent animals. All primates show great levels of intelligence and are able to resemble some of the most complex emotional behaviors often associated with human beings.

Raising a monkey can be challenging, as they grow older they become aggressive and develop a habit of their own, leading to them demanding more independence from their owners. Monkeys with time, require the social dependence of their own kind.

Bengal Cat

Low Maintenance: No

If you’re a cat lover, then having a show stopper of a cat is nothing better - combining the looks of its wild exterior fur coat, along with the minimalistic behavior of your average house cat. You’re left with a cat that only gives you all the benefits of appearance but also a subtle nature.

If you’re a dull person, know so before your Bengal cat is not. The cat will continue to amaze you with its highly energetic instincts that allows it to continue throughout the day tirelessly. To be honest, that’s one type of cat I would definitely go for.

Skunk

Low Maintenance: No

When the wild skunks are captured, their glands, which are the cause of their smell are removed within the four weeks of age. However removing of the glands is not legally allowed in some countries, so make sure that your country or state allows it. Only then you can use skunk as a pet otherwise they can spray bad smelling fluid which is not bearable.

Chestnut-Spotted Genet

Low Maintenance: No

Genets are very cautious of their surroundings, hailing from the African continent, the animal seems to be a prey and somewhat has a troubled attitude towards humans. Especially if not handled from a young age. At the end, the animal is a domestic wild animal and will not be found cuddling and entirely engaging. Genet are very independent in nature.

Capybara

Low Maintenance: No

I thought rodents couldn’t get any bigger. What? you didn’t know that? Capybara’s are in fact rodents and belong from the same family. Even though being very unusual pets, they are very social animals and love to work in groups. So having a single will not be the most ideal of situations for the mammal.

As associated with any rodent – chewing is a problem and they will leave no chance to have every possible nibble here n there at your furniture. Capybaras are semi aquatic, so people with access to lakes or water bodies have a better chance of enjoying with these animals.

Llama

Low Maintenance: Yes

Our next animal on the list is the llama, they are like a mixture between a camel and a donkey. Llama’s make great pets as they can be very soft natured and make great companions. Especially for people on a farm, having a few llamas is no big deal and they make a perfect combination of fun and cuteness in decent package.

Llama’s almost look like a big poodle because of their fur. They show great manners and are very clean in nature and show very friendly dispositions. Llamas require less maintenance, accounting to be a reason for their ever growing popularity.

Silver Fox

Low Maintenance: Yes

Although the original fox is from Siberia, the silver fox also follows the same blood line. Originating from Russia, the silver foxes are a version of the domesticated fox.

Although all breading is carried out there in Russia. A US company works alongside for the American customers, as the only legalized importer of silver foxes, they are quite expensive to buy.

Turtle

Low Maintenance: Yes

No, you won’t be getting your own set of mutant ninja turtles, but they sure do make a great view in the family room. Their petite size and delicate nature is a reason why they are bought, but most do so for the sheer admiration of the reptile.

Initially baby turtles require constant care and controlled environments but once they are mature enough the turtles are basically maintenance free. They do however require the closeness of a water body for their daily swimming requirements. Proving to be an excellent exotic pet choice for children and trust me they will adore them!

Wallaroo

Low Maintenance: No

Wallaroo is a unique choice for an exotic pet, but what better than a kangaroo looking marsupial. Wallaroo’s are strong and very powerful.

Nonetheless, the animal bonds very well with their owners and more so if they are hand raised from birth. They are usually very intelligent and show compassion towards other house pets as well.

Hippopotamus

Low Maintenance: No

A very unusual choice to keep as a pet, not commonly found in any house hold from around the world. The hippo to be short, might be kept in captivity simply to be taken cared for from a distance. In sanctuaries, baby hippos might be initially taken cared off but later re introduced to their mothers after maturing a little enough.

Hippos grow to be immensely large and can weight upwards of the 1 tone mark, now that is big.

Stick Insect

Low Maintenance: Yes

If you have watched the bug’s life, you will remember there was a character that resembled a stick insect. In reality, stick insects resemble close to small sticks and twigs, and easily blend in the forest ground. Stick insects have excellent camouflaging irrespective of where they are. Keeping them well away from their predators

Stick insects should be handled with extreme care, as their limbs are even more delicate than their stick resembling body. They love to live in moderate to humid climates with decently controlled damp conditions.

Hyacinth Macaw

Low Maintenance: No

Yes! Finally we have reached to our #1 spot on the list, and we reserved this place for none other than this beautiful bird. The Hyacinth Macaw is the largest of the macaw species in the world and they are as affectionate as a human being. Being a bird, you will feel you’re with an infant with endless energy, definitely one of the best exotic pets you can keep in your house.

The Macaw shows affection by cuddling with their owners. Unlike other birds, which will keep to themselves, the macaw loves playing with toys and breaks them to smithereens. So be sure to keep many at hand.

You will often find them biting uncontrollably and chewing comes associated naturally. In addition to that, the bird is quite loud. What would you expect from a bird that has to sing in the rainforest the size of a Britain?

Note: You have to ensure that you and your animal companions live in legal harmony according to your state law as every country or state has its own law about pets. It can be the situation that some of the above animals are not legal in your state so it is your duty to make sure that your dream pet is legal in your state. Moreover, every person has different paying capacity so some animals might not be low maintenance pets for you so again make sure that your pocket allows you to own certain animal.