Because many exotic pets are compact and quiet (and don't need to go for walks) they can be a good choice for apartments. Always check your tenant or homeowner's agreements, however, to find out what pets are permitted before choosing an exotic pet for apartment living. If pets are usually not allowed, you may be able to get an exception, but if this is the case, always get permission in writing (never try to sneak a pet in!). Once you are all clear to choose a exotic pet, figure out what you want in a pet and what kind of space you have. Here's some help with the decision.
Hedgehogs
Photo © Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
- Can be handled and taken out of the cage for exercise.
- Need a decent sized cage but not a whole lot of space (generally solitary).
- Most active at night.
- Check legal status in your area first.
Sugar Gliders
Photo © Nicole J. Putnam
- Social and bond well with owners if handled lots from young age.
- Due to social nature, do best in same sex pairs (but only if raised together from a young age -- older sugar gliders are often very territorial toward new gliders)
- Active and playful, sugar gliders need a large cage, but height is more important than floor space.
- Difficult to fully meet nutrtional needs.
- Check legal status in your area first.
Frogs
Photo © Lianne McLeod
- Most frogs do not need much space.
- Several choices -- aquatic frogs (dwarf clawed frogs, African clawed frogs), semi aquatic frogs (oriental fire bellied toads), tree frogs (American green tree frog, White's tree frog), to large but sedentary frogs (pacman frogs).
- Keep in mind males may sing, so also not a fully quiet choice.
- Not suitable for handling (their skin is too sensitive and delicate).
Hermit Crabs
Photo © Lianne McLeod
- Interesting to watch (not great for handling, though).
- Social, so do best with other hermit crabs.
- Need a larger tank than most pet stores sell for crabs, but a 10-20 gallon tank should do for a few small crabs.
Fire Bellied Newts
Photo © Lianne McLeod
- Mostly aquatic -- need an aquarium that is part water, part land.
- Easy to care for.
- Striking colors and fun to watch, but not suitable for handling.
Tarantulas
Photo © Lianne McLeod
- A bit more adventurous choice, but quiet, clean, easy to care for, and need very little space.
- Be extra careful about escapes -- both the tarantula and the crickets it will eat. If your tarantula goes missing, you will be [i]extremely[/i] unpopular with your neighbors!
- Not suitable for handling, mostly due to the risk of injury to the tarantula.