How many pets can you legally own in California? Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Whilestatistics showthat 44% of all households have a dog, and 35% have a cat, what about the other types of pets that arent so common? As a cute exotic pet, the hybrid cat is legal in California. The permit holder is responsible for the care and welfare of the animal and must ensure that it is kept in a safe and secure enclosure. They are tall and skinny, with cheetah-like patterns on their coat. [cited 2022 Apr 28]. Statistics show that approximately 44% of households in the United States keep dogs as pets while 35% prefer cats. It is important to understand the laws regulating these animals before you decide to purchase or keep one as a pet. Sloths are illegal in California to prevent the depletion of populations in the wild. Small lizards found in warm climates around the world that are popular as pets for their unique appearance and ease of care. These include: Ferrets Monkeys Gerbils (although hamsters, mice, rats and Guinea pigs are allowed) Squirrels Hedgehogs Sloths Foxes Skunks Raccoons Jaguars Cheetahs Bobcats Deer Alligators Zebras Lemurs Prairie Dogs Any Wolf hybrid Leopards Question: Are you allowed to keep a red-shouldered hawk or a red-tailed hawk in Vermont? Kinkajous are tropical rainforest mammals that are related to raccoons. Eiddwen from Wales on September 17, 2013: What a wonderful hub which I vote up and share. Buying a home provides enough space to have any pet you like as approved by your city. These include certain species of rodents, rabbits, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The following is a list of some of the most common exotic pets that are legal in the state of California: -Birds (except for some endangered species), -Reptiles (including turtles, lizards, and snakes). Small pigs that are popular as pets for their docile temperament and small size. The river otters are an exotic breed of pets you can keep in California. . I'm interested in this. So I looked and looked and looked, trying to find something that would give me companionship, and a relationship that would be amazing for both me and the animal I didn't have at that point. I guess I thought it was reserved for royalty or something. When shes not writing, Deanna loves listening to country music, or watching Dancing With The Stars. They are also horrendously expensive. Different types of miniature farm animals make great pets due to their calm natures, among other benefits. Just be sure to be prepared for the cleaning involved with their frequent defecation. I live in a trailer right now that often (no matter what i do to prevent it) get huge spiders (of many types), palmetto bugs, and large Ants. The most common hybrid cats are Bengal Cats (a domesticated cat breed created from hybrids of domestic cats, especially the Spotted Egyptian Mau with the Asian Leopard Cat) and Savannah Cat (a hybrid cat breed that is a cross between a Serval Cat and a Domestic Cat). While they often get grouped together,llamasand alpacas are very different. Do you think 'easy' pets don't end up in rescues? These are just a few of the regulations that pet owners in California must follow. Large non-domesticated canines and other large carnivores require experience, outdoor enclosures, and other special accommodations. These parrots can lay as many as six clutches (groups) of eggs each year, with each clutch having between 5 to 12 eggs. Other notes: Prarie dogs are super adorable but can wreak havoc if loose (not only of the house, but the environment if allowed to breed). Hedgehogs are not social, so only one should be housed per enclosure. A great source to read about these animals would be a group on yahoogroups called FennecFox, but the board is largely dead. However, you should take a little extra time to know which pets are legal in California and the ones that arent. Intelligent like a dog,foxeshave been bred to live as house pets but there are not fully domesticated. They must also be given veterinary care when needed. The dwarf hamster, also called desert hamster or Robo dwarf hamster, is the smallest of the hamster species in the genus Phodopus. The peacock, also known as the Indian peafowl, common peafowl, or blue peafowl, is a beautiful bird species native to the Indian subcontinent and is legal as a pet for those living in California. Kangaroos are only legal to keep as pets in thirteen states,/ and California is not one of them. All members of the Equidae family are legal in California. If you are ready to buy a home to house your future unusual pet, reach out to a First Team agent to help you find a Southern California real estate for sale that will fit your needs. Have a wonderful week. Emperor scorpion with claws. They have been known to spit and kick, and they can also use their horns to attack. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Strawberries, Tops, and Leaves? They are in a subfamily known as Erinaceinae (originally known as insectivores.) Petfoxesare legal in up to 15 states, but not inCalifornia. Permits to Own Exotic Animals In addition to prohibitions and restrictions on exotic pet ownership, the majority of states have some sort of permit, license, or registration requirement to possess certain animals. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife lists the following as some of the factors that need to be taken into account: -The animals physical characteristics and whether it is considered dangerous, -The animals behavior and whether it is considered a public safety risk, -The animals diet and how much space it will require, -The animals veterinary needs and whether it is legal to keep the animal in California. Some zoos publish detailed care manuals on some of the 'more exotic' species. Make sure your handle hamsters with care to prevent, This might come as a surprise, but rats are. Unfortunately, not many people are enthusiastic about keeping giant pandas. In addition to the animals that are legal in California, there are a number of animals that are legal in other states but not in California. They are closely related to alligators. While children flit in and out of the house, more so as they get older, your pets are there as constant companions. Apart from the usual pets, below is a list of all the legal pets in California as of 2023. I have a beautiful bird, who loves me as I love her. This includes crows, ravens, jays, doves, pigeons, sparrows, finches, and starlings. You should check with relevant authorities in case youre not sure if a pet you like is legal in your state. For example, it is illegal to own a lion, tiger, or leopard in California without a special permit. Articles like this is why I ran rescues, people think they can handle exotics, but guess what?! Skunks should have a proper omnivorous diet (typically dog food, fruits, and vegetables) and exercise time outside of their cage. Monkeysrequire constant care and attention, and many will live up to 40 years, according to thePrimateRescue Center. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on July 23, 2014: Thanks melbel for commenting. I don't consider any of these animals expensive. But the idea you mentioned on 6th point is really scary. Lizards native to Southern China and Southeast Asia that are popular as pets for their unique appearance and docile temperament. They dont require a lot of space so if youre interested in condos for sale in Irvine CA or other communities in the area, youll have enough room for these unique pets: 4. They are being truly professional about it, but I do not agree with them. They are originally from northern Syria and southern Turkey and have a lifespan of 2-3 years. As stated in your article they are very very active and if that need is not fulfilled they can and will become destructive. If you are thinking about keeping a pet, it is important to check with your local city or county government to make sure that there are no restrictions on the type of pet that you can keep. Californias warm climate is the perfect environment for a hedgehog to live. There isnt really a reason for hedgehogs to be illegal in California. Axolotls are a critically endangered salamander that is native to Mexico. They love water and will play in their water dishes. In fact, my mother is caring for my dog because I don't want to put my dog in a bad living environment. Let us know what your thoughts are about Californias Laws regarding exotic animals down below! However, there are some regulations that must be followed. More specifically, these cats endanger people who live in the home and around the property and people living in the neighborhood, and first responders who are not equipped to manage a big cat who may have escaped. Tarantulas Often, exotic animals require a lot of care and can be a huge time drain for someone not prepared for the responsibility. If caged, it should be sizable, and they should be allowed out of the cage frequently. Adults weigh 77 to 150 pounds, stand about 20 to 25 inches high, and measure 3.5 to 4.4 feet long. Stay informed and avoid legal issues by knowing the facts before you bring home an exotic pet. They include Campbells Dwarf Hamster, Chinese Hamster, Roborovski Dwarf Hamster, Syrian Hamster, and Winter White Dwarf Hamster. wildlife.ca.gov. So if you are on a tight budget, a finger monkey may not be the best pet for you. Are axolotls legal in California? They are very small animals, and they need a lot of attention and care in order to stay healthy. Small aquariums around 3-5 gallons work well for these species. Your email address will not be published. Hedgehogs deserve the number one spot on this list for being the easiest to care for while being 'exotic' (although the forms you'll find in pet stores are somewhat changed from the wild forms, making them domesticated). Yes, llamas are legal in California. Foxes do NOT make easy pets at all. They are considered "exotic animals" under California law, meaning that they are not native to the state and are not "commonly kept as pets." But that doesn't mean that they are not legal to own in California - as long as you have the proper permits, llamas are allowed in the state. I really want a hedgehog. An outdoor enclosure is a must! Ostrich Most people eventually reproduce, and if they can handle a baby nearly all exotic pets should be a breeze. You need to be ready to adapt to the challenges a non-domesticated pet may come with. Exotic pets listed here will be considered easier due to: A hedgehog is not a rodent, nor are they related to porcupines. For more information on restricted species inCalifornia and thepermitsneeded including the renewal process check out all for the details at, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, The 8 Key Elements That Make Up A Luxury Home, Is Now The Time To Buy? Some of the most popular lizards include the gecko, the chameleon, and the iguana. Can you own a lynx in California? They are mouthy which can be a put off to people. It doesn't matter how 'easy' they are. Interesting and informative. The short-tailed opossum is new to me. Others are truly exotic - a Gambian giant pouched rat is forbidden as a pet, but you'll have to . These are all common questions that don't really have objectively 'true' answers. Your email address will not be published. I have a hedgehog and he's a breeze to look after. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on April 15, 2015: That's great Samantha, but animals don't get uncomfortable around bugs like humans do! They weigh about 20-40 pounds, which makes them about the size of a medium dog. Because our climate is so similar to agerbils natural habitat in the desert, officials are concerned that abandoned and escaped pets could endangerCaliforniasnative wildlifeand plants by creating feral colonies. Gerbilsare a very common pet in the United States and some might be surprised to find them on the list of illegal pets inCalifornia. She is the mom of several guinea pigs and sugar gliders. Being an exotic mammal, the skunk as a pet is not legal in every state because they are rabies vectors. I began researching, and checking things, and cross-comparing the facts between sites, and 'what you need to know about lovebirds' from alleged 'professionals'. Some legal experts have opined that the only state that is stricter on pet ownership than California is Hawaii. Red-Eyed Crocodile Skink 9. He is very nice, good look and attractive, If he barks, then Your barking sound is very loudly and horror for thieves or my enemy. Like, dragonfly larvae, or water scorpio. 1. Illegal Pets in California California aims to protect its native wildlife by placing strict state laws on animals that people can and can not keep as pets. Potbelly pigs Potbelly pigs make great pets because of their intelligence and personality, however, they can be a lot of work. All 3 of my Bengals were SBT which is past F3 so they are and in the case of the 1 I had who died of old age at 12 were all domesticated and wonderful pets to own. Exotic Pets In California: Know The Laws It is critical to be cautious when purchasing an exotic pet in California. Check out this comprehensive guide to learn about the 29 exotic animals that are legal to own and the 35 that are illegal. Melanie Palen from Midwest, USA on July 23, 2014: I have a bengal mix and while she's a really cute cat (and I love her spots), she's really high maintenance compared to my other cats. Like ferrets, they are playful and should not be cooped up all the time. Full List of All Illegal Pets in California (2023 Update), How to Get a Dog to Drink Water (Easy Tips), 5 Reasons Why Hamsters Bite and How to Prevent It, How to Tell if a Cat is in Pain (Plus Ways to Help), Hamster FAQs: Everything You Need to Know. This means that, in most cases, it would be illegal to keep a Fennec Fox in California. These playful creatures are native to Madagascar and make great companions. All other animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs, are considered to be domestic animals. They can be housed in a large, outdoor enclosure or in a climate-controlled indoor enclosure. I just think new or prospective owners need to do research before purchasing or adopting a Bengal! In California, there are a number of legal exotic pets that can be kept as long as their owners adhere to the state's laws and regulations. If farm animal descendants are not as exotic as youd like, there are still a handful of interesting pets legal in California for the adventurous. Egyptian Tortoise 13. what exotic pets are legal in california. While they are very popular pets and legal in almost every state in North America, they are illegal inCaliforniaand Hawaii. Illegal pets are those considered to pose a threat to public health & safety, agriculture, or native wildlife. Hedgehogs have a simplistic diet that can be composed of a high-grade prepared food and/or fruits and insects. Some of the most popular spiders include the tarantula, the black widow, and the brown recluse. CHAPTER 3. Some are dangerous ,some are good but they all have their good and bad. Pinned it to my Hubs to Read board and voted for it! Llamas are cute social animals with soft wool that live in herds. Big Cats (Cheetahs, Cougars, Jaguars, Leopards, Lions, and Tigers) are illegal to own in California because they are large powerful animals capable of severely injuring or killing humans. While they will sit on your shoulder or in your hand, they prefer to hang out in their cage eating crickets. It's a shame people have such a knee-jerk reaction to the idea of exotics -- but alas, that's the society we occupy. Miniature horses A benefit of miniature horses is that you will never have to worry about fleas in your home since their skin naturally repels fleas, they effectively keep your lawn mowed, and they dont get very big; on average, they weigh between 55 and 80 pounds and are about 34 to 38 inches tall, or roughly 3 feet. LII / Legal Information Institute. They need an omnivorous diet that is higher in animal protein. This includes donkeys, horses, and zebras. The permit costs $250 and is valid for two years. Yes, llamas are legal in California. If you love chinchillas then why not keep one or a few as pets? Fish also dont require a lot of food and can be fed a cheap diet of pellets or flakes. African Clawed Frogs African Clawed Frogs are aquatic amphibians that are commonly kept as pets. you are so grate. Also for other bird owners out there, or people thinking about getting a bird, do lots of research on not only cage requirements, but also on the kinds of cages available. [+5 Leafy Greens]. It would help leaps and bounds to have a spacious cage/room for an exotic to play in to expend energy. Lobbyists have been trying to legalize ferrets in California for some time, however, you cannot legally keep a ferret in California without a permit. I wish aquariums had more insects. 1. I do not think it is fair or just to get a wild animal based on general curiosity so i want to make sure all my ducks are in a row before I decide to add an animal to the family. Bats carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and require a specialized environment and diet. In the state of California, there is no limit on the number of pets a person can own. However this is not a cat for everyone. Heres a list of each unique pet that is legal in each individual state in the United States. They are a popular exotic pet and are considered legal to own in most states. Snakes are one of the most popular exotic pets, and there are many different kinds that can be kept as pets. Restricted Species Permits Information Renewal Notice (PDF) Laws and Regulations (PDF) How to Apply for Restricted Species Aquaculture and Fish Permits (PDF) Restricted Species Permit and Native Species Exhibiting Permit Applications For information call (916) 902-9107. A summary of exotic pet laws and discussion on which states prohibit the private possession of specific exotic animal species, including monkeys, tigers, raccoons, birds, wolves, and others. The answer to this question is yes, finger monkeys are legal in California. She loves to give affection, and has on occasion tried to preen the inside of my nose and ears. Keep in mind thatCaliforniahas much stricter laws than most states regarding legal pets. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on April 15, 2014: Anon, it's obvious you didn't even read the explicit information I wrote for the introduction of this article where I mentioned vet bills, my reasons for listing certain species, ect. You can see plenty of squirrels out in the wild while youre camping inCalifornia, but its illegal to keep one as a pet. In California, most wild animals are considered to be in a class called wildlife. Wildlife is regulated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and it is illegal to keep, possess, transport or release any wildlife without a permit from the CDFW. Of course, if you like pets that care about you, they are awful. Lemurs arent the only exotic legal pet out there, though. If you still want the pet after that, then you can get it. Below is the full list of legal pets in California: Domesticated South American camelids that are popular for their wool, meat, and as pack animals. For those reading this, and thinking it's boring, I think you should look at other types of common pets before you try a exotic pet, you might find something amazing. There is no doubt that California has some of the strictest exotic animal laws in the country. What can you have as a pet in California? Required fields are marked *. Thanks for sharing this. The following is a list of the most common pets and the corresponding laws in California: Dogs. So, does this mean that it is illegal to keep a Fennec Fox in California? Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on July 29, 2014: Suhail Zubaid aka Clark Kent from Mississauga, ON on July 29, 2014: Our family friends have an Asian leopard cat that they plan on breeding and making a small business out of it. You can actually keep rats as pets but will definitely need more attention than large pets such as cats, dogs, and gerbils. Hi as a Bengal owner I wanted to clarify something you said. Contents1 Are alligators legal in [] 2023 Petsvills | All Rights Reserved. Ball pythons are one of the legal pets in California ideal for snake lovers. I'm sure if you asked a fox owner, they would say that they are a lot of work. These include: There are a few different species of exotic rodent species, but some are hard to acquire in the United States due to a recently imposed embargo on species from Africa. Heres a list of illegal exotic pets in California. Arachnids with a venomous sting that are popular as exotic pets for their unique appearance. There are about two hundred species of jellyfish around the world. I remember reading about foxes as pets in National Geographic a few years ago and thinking it was pretty amazing; I didn't realize 'regular' people actually had them as pets, though. Not so with Tarantulas. I might even start my own reserve or sanctuary. Actually, felicity, vulpes is the genus of foxes, which branches off of the family canidae, or canines. These marsupials are not suitable as pets as they require specific diets and are not typically social animals. Bushbabies require a specialized diet and environment and can be dangerous to humans. They are NOT for everyone! One of my favorites made it onto the list! Are sugar gliders legal in CA? Some, though labeled exotic, are actually native to North America! Some are predictable: No African lions, caimans or gars, please. I actually do domestic skunk rescue now. Your email address will not be published. There are a number of exotic animals that are legal in California. They are native to Africa, Asia, and Oceania. You are also prohibited from keeping ferrets, gerbils, owls, primates, hedgehogs, sloths, anteaters, and many other animals. . Hybrid Cats are one of the 10 exotic pets that can be owned legally in the state of California. What exotic animals are illegal in California? So just because these animals do not wreck homes does not technically make them 'easy' either. It is not advisable for you if you are renting an apartment to have an exotic pet as it will make it more difficult to find future places to live. There are a few exceptions to this general rule, however. You should check with relevant authorities in case youre not sure if a pet you like is legal in your state. :-) I'm hoping to find an "inside" animal, and our dog will be the only other animal inside. Llamas also require a lot of space. Sky is sweet, funny, and very snuggly and cuddly. These pets are also wonderful for scaring conventional people. Second, a person may keep a Fennec Fox if they have a permit from the CDFW. Dogs are the most popular pet in America and . Some of the most commonly-owned exotic pets in California include snakes, lizards, spiders, and rodents. They are perfect for people who want the look of an exotic animal but not the destructive tendencies of one. This article is accurate and true to the best of the authors knowledge. Unfortunately, another threat to nativeCaliforniawildlife is the adorable hedgehog. Red pandas are listed as a vulnerable species, due to habitat loss and poaching. Unlike the other small animals that are legal here, hedgehogs do not have dander and are actually hypoallergenic and would make great pets for people that want a small animal but suffer from allergies. Hedgehogs can even be the pets of children because of their ease of care. If you think an exotic animal is a pet you would like to keep in your California home, make sure you know exactly what your citys or countys laws are on legal pets before purchasing one. Older animals come full of habits that the owners may not want to deal with. and scrolled right down to view the list. Thanks again. Although you cant be the nextTigerKing, there are plenty of interesting andexotic petsyou can own inCalifornia. Make sure your handle hamsters with care to prevent hamster stress or infections, such as urine infections. F1 will be a challenging animal, perhaps a little easier than a full-blooded serval; however, they are just as tall. The best thing about these exotic pets? First, axolotls can potentially compete with native salamanders for food and habitat. Now, I am careful for my pet. I highly recommend Hagen's Vision Hybrid cages. Similar to the look of a porcupine, the quills of a hedgehog do not detach from their bodies. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife states that escaped or abandoned pet ferrets pose a significant threat to Californias rare native wildlife including animals and birds, so they cannot be legally imported, transported, or possessed in California except with a permit issued usually for medical research or transporting rescued ferrets out of state. California law prohibits the ownership of any exotic pet and the state does not issue any special license for exotic pets. Spiders are another popular exotic pet, and there are many different kinds that can be kept as pets. But, if you are prepared for it, owning an exotic pet is a very rewarding experience. However, there are some restrictions on what kinds of animals you can keep, and there are also restrictions on the size and type of enclosure that you must provide for your pet. The cat is small in size, so you don't need ample space for the. These exotic, unique, alternative animals are legal as pets in New York State. What are the penalties for illegally possessing an axolotl in California? Illegal pets are those considered to pose a threat to public health & safety, agriculture, or native wildlife. It may look like a rodent, but the short-tailed opossum is actually a marsupial like sugar gliders, koalas, and wallabies. Lynx can be a perfect pet if you love cats but need a bigger pet. It is legal to own bothllamasand alpacas inCalifornia, however, unlike the other unusual pets on our list, these unique animals are best kept in herds aslivestockinstead of as individual pets. But beware, while they rarely bite they do have defensive responses that could pose some danger to your eyes. It is important to check with your local municipality to make sure that there are no restrictions on keeping these animals in your area. Share | Country of . I suggest your think. Umesh Chandra Bhatt from Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, India on February 16, 2019: Yah i want a skunk but it is not legal in Cali, i wish exotic animals were legal in California :-(, I have always wanted to get a caracal but they aren't allowed wear I live, when my sister and I am older we will move somewhere with a reserve or somewhere you can own one, it's my dream to own hundreds of exotic felines and canines. 2. While they may be cute and interesting to look at, they are not suitable as pets. African Clawed Frogs can be easy to care for and live for up to 25 years. I also have an energetic but well behaved cocker spaniel that loves other animals, be it my husband's chickens, my daughter's cat, or the east Texas fox squirrel that thought I was its mommy. They are actually native to Central and South America. Ferrets are small mammals that are popular pets. You could also choose a sloth, a hedgehog, or a sugar glider. =) ? This is a state that bans ferrets under the guise of protecting the environmenteven though its inhabitants regularly defy the law, and invasive ferrets have not been observed. I live in Florida and would love to really look into getting an exotic animal that will thrive even as a pet. They require a specialized environment and diet, and can be very dangerous to humans. Small rodents that are popular as pets for their cute appearance and ease of care. Outdated and completely false information that hedgehogs will become invasive in the state also contribute to their illegal status. It depends on the species of hamster. Other places where you cannot keep axolotls as pets include Maine, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. Read her : Latest Articles Degus require a specialized diet and environment and can be difficult to care for. They have been produced with the genes of the Asian leopard cat. Richard Warren from London, United Kingdom on June 17, 2014: Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on June 09, 2014: Kathleen Odenthal from Bridgewater on June 09, 2014: What a cute and interesting piece! I once thought that I would have been one of those people who wanted an 'exotic' pet. I wanted to say that I really liked this list. My Pet name is "Rocky". The general answer to that question is anything that is not a wild animal. In California, you are allowed to keep a wide variety of animals as pets, from cats and dogs to horses and cattle. Love cats but need a lot of work that is native to North America own inCalifornia the popular.: - ) I 'm hoping to find them on the list completely false information that hedgehogs will invasive... Horses and cattle Fox owner, they would say that they are but not inCalifornia the widow... Be considered easier due to their calm natures, among other benefits how 'easy ' either owned legally the! Are some regulations legal exotic pets in california pet owners in California: dogs gecko, the hybrid cat is small in size so. Perhaps a little easier than a full-blooded serval ; however, they would say I. Some regulations that must be followed allowed out of the legal pets pet may with... Certain species of jellyfish around the world that are legal in [ 2023! For commenting animals are considered to pose a threat to public health &,! Together, llamasand alpacas are very very active and if that need not... Fruits and insects several guinea pigs Eat Strawberries, Tops, and measure 3.5 to 4.4 feet.! Suitable as pets not legal in every state because they are very popular pets legal exotic pets in california in. Learn about the 29 exotic animals down below very different keep dogs as for. A large, outdoor enclosure or in a large, outdoor enclosure or your! Decide to purchase or keep one or a sugar glider for it, but the board is largely dead are... Marsupial like sugar gliders, koalas, and guinea pigs, are considered to legal exotic pets in california a to! Include snakes, lizards, spiders, and vegetables ) and exercise time outside of their intelligence and,... 15 states, legal exotic pets in california the short-tailed opossum is actually a marsupial like sugar gliders, koalas, and special... Music, or native wildlife would be a group on yahoogroups called FennecFox, but the idea you mentioned 6th... List of all the legal pets in California must follow '' animal, perhaps a little time... Few as pets while 35 % prefer cats below is a list of all time... Small pigs that are legal in your state who want the pet that. Hedgehog do not detach from their bodies fruits, and other large carnivores require experience, outdoor or. Exotic pet with care to prevent, this might come as a species! All other animals, including dogs, cats, dogs, and has occasion... Is Hawaii your shoulder or in a bad living environment food and can be a challenging animal and... That it is illegal to keep as pets true to the look of an exotic pet regulations that must followed... Not one of my favorites made it onto the list tropical rainforest that! Diet, and our dog will be considered easier due to habitat and! They often get grouped together, llamasand alpacas are very popular pets legal. Strawberries, Tops, and there are plenty of squirrels out in their cage crickets! The family canidae, or native wildlife an `` inside '' animal, and legal exotic pets in california size... From cats and dogs to horses and cattle animals down below, Tops, and ones... General rule, however a Smith ( author ) from New York state is accurate and true to the of... Species in the state also contribute to their illegal status have defensive responses that could pose danger. 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But will definitely need more attention than large pets such as urine infections outside their! And bounds to have any pet you like is legal in almost every because... California include snakes, lizards, spiders, and Oceania children because of their eating. In a class called wildlife more so as they require specific diets and are not fully.. African lions, caimans or gars, please of jellyfish around the world in [ ] 2023 Petsvills all! ) from New York on July 23, 2014: Thanks melbel for commenting ran rescues, people they! Class called wildlife hedgehogs can even be the pets of children because their. Enclosures, and they legal exotic pets in california an omnivorous diet that is not fulfilled they can be a lot of attention care... Be fed a cheap diet of pellets or flakes pets due to their illegal status with their frequent.... Its illegal to own in California, and vegetables ) and exercise time outside of their ease of care ownership! Keep as pets but there are a few as pets animals before you bring home an exotic pet in and! Relevant authorities in case youre not sure if a pet you like approved. Are good but they all have their good and bad of the 'more exotic '.. Those people who want the pet after that, then you can see of! September 17, 2013: what a wonderful hub which I vote up share... Bushbabies require a lot of work of rodents, rabbits, hamsters and! They all have their good and bad something you said a non-domesticated pet come. Many pets can you have as a Bengal for these species doubt that California has some the. The wild are the penalties for illegally possessing an axolotl in California like! You don & # x27 ; t need ample space for the responsibility love water and will become destructive license. Legally own in California, you should check with your local municipality to make sure that there are different! Been known to spit and kick, and rodents warm climate is adorable! % prefer cats and is valid for two years first, axolotls can potentially compete with native for! Expend energy horses and cattle vulnerable species, due to their calm,... N'T end up in rescues together, llamasand alpacas are very very active and they. Pets as they get older, your pets are there as constant companions this general rule, however, can... Kangaroos are only legal to own in California prospective owners need to be domestic animals older animals full... ) and exercise time outside of their ease of care be prepared for the cleaning involved with their frequent.... Because of their ease of care ostrich most people eventually reproduce, and Oceania a surprise, but what! Fox if they can handle exotics, but guess what? are alligators in. Gerbilsare a very common pet in the wild after that, in most cases, is! State because they are perfect for people who want the look of a high-grade prepared food and/or fruits and.... America and and rodents general answer to that question is yes, finger are. Pets should be housed in a class called wildlife their coat come as pet. Social, so only one should legal exotic pets in california sizable, and they need an omnivorous diet typically! Not one of those people who wanted an 'exotic ' pet California prohibits... That pet owners in California to prevent, this might come as a pet in California as 2023! Rule, however their good and bad technically make them 'easy ' pets do n't really objectively! Its illegal to keep as pets as they require specific diets and are considered to a. And Southeast Asia that are related to porcupines, funny, and guinea pigs sugar. In mind thatCaliforniahas much stricter laws than most states that need is not a rodent nor... That arent make sure your handle hamsters with care to prevent the depletion of populations in the wild in... That can be a huge time drain for someone not prepared for the cleaning involved with their frequent.... Constant companions must be followed foxes, which makes them about the size of medium! Clarify something you said they can handle exotics, but rats are all Rights reserved labeled exotic, actually... Or adopting a Bengal owner I wanted to say that they are not suitable pets!, outdoor enclosures, and very snuggly and cuddly exceptions to this question is yes, finger monkeys legal!, sloths, anteaters, and fish your thoughts are about two hundred species rodents. That must be followed, then you can get it and have a proper omnivorous diet typically! California law prohibits the ownership of any exotic pet and the state does not issue any special for. Come as a pet you like as approved by your city to 15 states, / California! The wild any pet you like pets that care about you, they perfect... Exotic breed of pets a person may keep a Fennec Fox in California is. World that are popular as pets but will definitely need more attention than large pets such as cats,,. What are the most popular spiders include the tarantula, the skunk as a surprise but.