Top 5 exotic pets for kids
Nowadays dogs and cats alone don’t suffice as pets anymore. Besides being cute, cuddly, and attractive, the new requisite for children choosing their pets is, exotic pets. There are number of intelligent and loving animals to pick from. But there are many factors to keep in mind when selecting an exotic pet. Size and personality are the most important. Some animals are more suitable to open surroundings than city dwellings. The considerations are endless. Compiled below are five best exotic pet options which the kids would love to have.
1. Parrot lets
Parrot lets are the smallest parrots in the world; less than 5 inch at an average. They are quiet, with a natural pleasant chirp and can learn to talk and whistle. Playful, intelligent, and courageous as their cousins, the Amazon parrots, they respond well to human interaction.The ideal food for parrot lets is vegetables, fruits, seeds, and pellets. They are primarily green in color. Patches of blue, grey, and yellow occur in certain subspecies. The average life span of a parrot let is 20 years.
2. Squirrel monkeys
Squirrel monkeys are the smallest monkeys in the world; 1 ft long at an average. They are energetic, friendly, and intelligent animals who readily adapt to human beings. However, they need proper training to overcome their natural urges to rub themselves in their own urine. Their natural diet is insects though they can survive on fruits and vegetables as well. They live the longest in a humid environment. The average life span of a squirrel monkey is 20 years.
3. Sugar gliders
Sugar gliders are highly social little marsupials that readily take to human company. The average weight is about 5 ounces. Their preferred diet is insects and any substitute that is protein rich. These are nocturnal creatures and it is advisable to buy them in pairs so that they don’t demand your child’s attention at unholy hours. The average life span of a sugar glider is around 10 years.
4. Kinkajous
Kinkajous are energetic and friendly animals that can be great company for a young child. They are affectionate and easy to maintain on a common diet of meat, eggs, and cereal. They are about 20inches long. Pet Kinkajous can be expected to live up to 20 years. It is advisable to buy them in pairs since they are nocturnal creatures and are active and demanding at night.
5. Guinea pigs
Guinea pigs are among the cuddliest little things on earth. They are only about 10 inches long, furry, and round. Their average life span is around 5-7 years. They are easily domesticated with gentle handling and make loving pets. It is best to keep more than one guinea pig to avoid depression and loneliness in them. They need a vitamin C rich diet. Commercially available pellets are usually sufficient to keep them healthy.
Exotic pets are both a joy and a tremendous responsibility. Some of them belong to threatened and endangered species. The chance to raise and enjoy a rare pet is a gift to be valued.Hence parents must take great care in rearing these species and cherish their existence along with their kid.
