The world of exotic animals fascinates many, and the idea of having a pet that no one else has seems appealing. However, future owners often find that their expectations about care are far from reality. Many popular beliefs turn out to be myths that can harm the pet. Let’s take a look at the most common ones.
Exotic animals are easy to care for
Many believe that keeping an iguana, snake, or parrot is easier than having a dog or cat. In reality, exotic pets require just as much attention. They have specific needs regarding temperature, humidity, diet, and even ultraviolet light exposure. For example, chameleons do not drink from a water bowl but only from droplets trickling down leaves, and without properly adjusted lighting, they can develop rickets.
Reptiles don’t need warmth because they are cold-blooded
The fact that reptiles are cold-blooded doesn’t mean they can live without a heat source. Their bodies don’t generate heat, so they require special lamps or heated stones. If a snake or gecko is kept at room temperature, it will stop digesting food properly, become lethargic, and may eventually die.
Exotic animals can be fed whatever is available
New owners often assume that a turtle will enjoy lettuce or that a monkey will love bananas, just like in cartoons. However, their diet must be specific: land turtles require a variety of greens rather than vegetables, many snakes eat only live rodents, and monkeys need a proper balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. An improper diet quickly leads to health problems.
Chameleons change color to blend into their surroundings
This myth became widespread due to movies. In reality, chameleons change color based on their emotional state, temperature, or lighting conditions. They may become brighter when excited or darker when cold. However, they cannot “disappear” into their surroundings as many people believe.
An owl can be tamed just like a cat or a dog
Owls are wild birds and do not bond with humans the way typical pets do. They are nocturnal, sleeping during the day, which makes them unsuitable for household life. Additionally, they require a specific diet of raw rodents and ample space for flying. They dislike close contact and can cause injuries with their sharp talons.
Spiders and scorpions cannot harm their owner
Some owners believe that all spiders and scorpions sold in pet stores are safe. However, even non-venomous species can cause serious injuries through painful bites or allergic reactions. Additionally, these creatures are extremely delicate, and even a small fall can be fatal for them.
Aquatic turtles can live in a regular aquarium
A common myth is that small turtles can simply swim in a tank filled with water. In reality, they require a specialized terrarium with a dry area, proper temperature, and ultraviolet lighting. Without these conditions, they can develop rickets, suffer from infections, and quickly lose their activity.
A terrarium does not require special care
People often assume that if an animal doesn’t roam around the house, it requires little maintenance. However, terrariums need regular cleaning, humidity control, substrate replacement, and heating system maintenance. Even a slight temperature deviation can be critical for reptiles or amphibians.
If a parrot talks, it means it’s happy
Many believe that a talking parrot is happy. However, birds can mimic human speech even when they are stressed. They require social interaction, a specialized diet, free flight around the room, and mental stimulation. In a small cage without attention, a parrot can suffer from depression, even if it appears active.
An ant farm requires no care
It may seem that ants are the easiest pets to maintain. However, their colony needs proper humidity, temperature, and a balanced diet. If conditions are not monitored, the colony may die or resort to cannibalism. And if the ants escape from the farm, it can become a real problem for your home.
Conclusion
The world of exotic animals is fascinating, but their care is far more complex than it seems at first glance. Improper maintenance can lead to illness and even the pet’s death. Therefore, before getting an unusual animal, it is essential to thoroughly research its needs and consult with specialists—veterinarians, groomers, dog trainers, or biologists—who can provide specific recommendations for the species. Proper care is, above all, a responsibility for its life.
