Beyond the Usual: No, that’s not a Cat
Beyond the Usual: No, that’s not a Cat
Caylee Barnett
Have you ever wished you could have a pet capybara, or something more than just a cat or dog? Well, there are many exotic animals that you can actually have as a pet and are legal, though for most you have to get a license/permit from the animal department and to know all the rules to have one. One surprising animal you could have as a pet is a capybara, though this one needs a permit, but it is actually legal to have. Capybaras are considered an exotic animal and are semi aquatic, so keeping one also means you need to make sure they have clean water and a shaded area. They are very social and shouldn’t be alone, so it’d be recommended to have at least two. Capybaras are not easy to raise and can even be expensive to maintain.
Another animal that is exotic and can also be obtained in Arizona is a chinchilla. Chinchillas are also difficult to maintain and are expensive. They have to be kept in cool temperatures (anything above 74°F is bad for them.) Especially in Arizona due to the high heat and humidity. Chinchillas live around 10-20 years which make them a long-term pet. Chinchillas are also quick learners with a quiet and peaceful nature.
Savannah cats are also legal in Arizona, but you should probably check if you need a special permit depending on what area you live in. Their needs are very similar to what a normal house cat would need, considering that they are partially a house cat breed, though they do need more space to play and are a very interactive species that need attention and care. Just like the capybaras, they also do not like being alone. Savannah cats are a mix of a Siamese cat, and a serval.
Surprisingly another exotic, yet adorable animal, that can be obtainable in Arizona is a wallaby. A wallaby is a part of the Macropodidae family (along with the kangaroos.) Wallabies are very similar to a kangaroo. They need a lot of care and attention and require a warmer climate, but still need protection from direct heat. They also need a lot of space and high maintenance. As similarly mentioned before, wallabies are social animals and should preferably not be alone.
A very cute animal that is not illegal to have, is a sugar glider! Sugar gliders are pretty similar to a possum, but can glide in the air, just like a flying squirrel. Just like the name suggests, they love sugary foods like nectar, fruits, vegetables, sap, protein, and bugs. They are very needy and need a lot of maintenance as any other animal. Sugar gliders are primarily in trees so they would need things suited to that lifestyle like branches, hiding spots, and a place to sharpen their claws.
All of these animals are considered exotic and fun to have, but before getting any of these animals, it may be legal for the state of Arizona, it would still be best to check with the city’s law. Without the permission of owning an exotic animal, it can result in four months of jail, and up to $700+ fine.