Definition of Exotic

Despite warnings to the contrary, many people choose to keep exotic animals as pets, in part because many people are also unaware of the definition of an exotic and don't know how difficult and time-consuming it is to care for them.

  1. Definition

    • An exotic is defined by most states in the United States as any animal that is not indigenous to the region, excluding domestic dogs. This definition can also expand to include nontraditional livestock, reptiles and any other type of pet classified as unusual.

    Common Types

    • The most common types of exotics kept as pets include sugar gliders, sun bears, monkeys, potbellied pigs, bearded dragons, black panthers and other big cats.

    Legalities

    • The laws governing the buying and selling of exotics in the U.S. vary by state. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Protection oppose the sale of certain types of exotics. But some states only penalize the buyer, not the seller, while some have penalties for both, and others require only that the seller be licensed.

    Health Concerns

    • Exotics can carry diseases, including rabies and salmonella, that are harmful to domesticated pets and humans.

    Safety Concerns

    • Small, cute exotic animals grow into unpredictable adult animals, often with specific health and dietary needs. While many people choose to keep exotics as pets and some are able to successfully do so, most find that their new pet is too much for them to handle.