In contrast, many unique pets have specialized requirements in captivity which might be past the scope of many pet keepers to offer . The welfare of those unique pets is usually in danger by way of a combination of things, together with an absence of accurate data obtainable on their care, incorrect husbandry, and the unrealistic expectations of homeowners. This is usually compounded by a lack of specialist veterinary care and a decrease propensity for house owners to avail themselves of such care . In this commentary, we review the suitability of a variety of exotic species, from the viewpoint of animal welfare and owner satisfaction, and make suggestions on which taxa could make suitable companion animals.
These pets include parrots, reptiles, amphibians and rabbits, as well as small species of rodent such as degus and guinea pigs. Many of those unique pet species aren’t domesticated, and infrequently have special necessities in captivity, which many homeowners do not have the amenities or data to provide. Keeping animals in settings to which they’re poorly adapted is a menace to their welfare. Additionally, owner satisfaction with the animal may be poor because of a misalignment of expectations, which further impacts on welfare, as it may result in repeated rehoming or neglect. Although not strictly classed as unique pets, guinea pigs have particular husbandry necessities that differ from those of different rodent species and rabbits. When their physiological and behavioral needs are adequately met, guinea pigs can make rewarding pets which might be neither expensive nor difficult to maintain. Guinea pigs require a dietary supply of Vitamin C; nevertheless, a variety of recent studies have reported that homeowners are conscious of this and lots of supplement their animals along with providing dietary materials excessive in Vitamin C .
Many owners report that non-domesticated foxes have a particularly strong odor, thus only making them appropriate for the outdoors. True domesticated foxes do not have an offensive scent, have a tamer character, and more simply settle for people as companions .
They are easier than sugar gliders, have affordable caging necessities, and are extremely affectionate with their house owners. Hedgehogs have a simplistic food regimen that may be composed of a high-grade prepared food and/or fruits and bugs. They are frequent sufficient that many pet stores promote food for them. Our Pet Food section presents a broad range of specialist meals, which has seen us turn out to be a market leader in supplying contemporary, healthy livefood, and high quality frozen foods for reptile keepers and falconers. Our “all-in-one” calcium complement for herbivorous and omnivorous reptiles and amphibians. Our chicken based omnivore method for opportunistic species. A complete diet that can also be fed as an occasional treat to herbivores and insectivores.
In conclusion, while there are growing numbers of exotics being saved as pets, this unfortunately does not reflect elevated public understanding of their wants. The difficulties of keeping these animals are also typically underestimated by owners. Whilst exotics are not the only pets that may suffer welfare problems when not properly cared for, there may be much more data available on the needs and proper care of cats and dogs. There has been a current development in the direction of keeping non-traditional companion animals, also referred to as unique pets.