You Can’t Own These Animals as Pets in America

Exotic animals are intriguing for a variety of reasons, leading some people to covet them. But these wild creatures are not conducive to being kept as pets, and many are illegal to own in the United States. The reasons these species are banned range from disease-carrying concerns to the welfare of the animal itself. Though laws vary across states, multiple species are prohibited nationally. 

Public interest in exotic pet ownership has been on the rise for years and continues to escalate in 2025. These concerns have grown due to interest in animal protection, but other concerns are at play as well. A handful of incidents have involved animal escapes, which can lead to attacks. Additionally, invasive species are an ecological threat. States have responded by tightening regulations.

This slideshow explores a number of species which are now illegal to own as pets. These fascinating and exotic animals belong in the wild, and not in people’s homes. We’ll cover why these species are restricted, the potential risks associated with them, and how regulations differ across states. If you think you may want an unconventional pet, check to make sure they are not on this list so you can remain a responsible pet owner and respectful of these beautiful species.

Big Cats

Under the federal Big Cat Public Safety Act owning predatory big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards is illegal nationwide. These huge felines pose an extreme danger to public safety and require highly specialized enclosures and care. Even expert handlers have been injured or killed. Additionally, private ownership contributes to illegal wildlife trade and undermines conservation efforts.

Bears

Bears are powerful wild animals that pose serious risks to human safety. Their unpredictable behavior, immense strength, and specific care needs make them unsuitable for domestic environments. Their often-massive size and tendency toward aggression when under stress are also main factors. Escapes could endanger communities or ecosystems.

Wolves and Wolf-Dog Hybrids

Owning a wolf is illegal in many U.S. states. Wolves have wild instincts that make them unpredictable and potentially dangerous. They are also pack animals and do not do well individually. Wolves may also transmit diseases like rabies and often do not adapt well to captivity or human interaction.

Venomous Snakes

Owning venomous snakes can pose serious risk of life-threatening bites and the need for specialized medical care like antivenom. These snakes can be difficult to contain securely, increasing the chance of escape and potential harm to others. Regulations aim to protect the public and prevent accidents involving these exotic, dangerous reptiles.

Primates

Primates, despite their innocent looks and playful behaviors, are illegal in many areas of America because they can be aggressive, unpredictable, and capable of causing serious injury. They also carry zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted to humans. Laws banning primate ownership also aim to protect the animals, which require complex social and psychological care not conducive to home environments.

Large Constrictor Snakes

Owning large constrictor snakes, such as anacondas and reticulated pythons, is illegal in several states. These powerful reptiles can pose a serious danger to humans and pets through suffocation. If released or escaped, they can threaten local wildlife and ecosystems. Restrictions help prevent ecological damage from non-native species.

Crocodiles and Alligators

Owning these strong, massive reptiles is illegal in many parts of America due to their strength, aggression, and potential to cause fatal attacks. These large reptiles require secure enclosures and specialized care that most private owners cannot provide.

Sugar Gliders

Owning sugar gliders is illegal in states like Alaska, California, and Hawaii due to ecological risks non-native species pose to local wildlife. Even in states where they are permitted, strict regulations often apply, including requirements for exotic pet permits in places like Georgia, New Mexico, and portions of New York City. These tiny mammals require expert veterinary care, specialized housing, and specific social environments that are difficult to create.

Skunks

Skunks are known carriers of rabies and other diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. Their natural defense mechanism, which involves spraying a foul-smelling chemical, makes them difficult to manage in a home setting. Mainly, laws restricting skunk ownership are in place to prevent disease spread.

Foxes

Foxes are wild animals; despite their resemblance to dogs, they are not domesticated pets. These little guys are skittish, nocturnal, and have a hard time adapting to household environments. Members of the fox family can be vectors for rabies, and there are no vaccines officially approved for them. In states where Fennec foxes are allowed, special permits are required, and strict regulations are enforced. Foxes of all species demand specialized care, including escape-proof enclosures, exotic diets, and access to exotic-vet services.

Large Parrots

Owning large parrots (such as macaws, cockatoos, and African greys) is illegal or heavily regulated in some U.S. jurisdictions due to their exceptionally long lifespans. These magnificent birds often survive 50–80+ years, which many owners aren’t prepared for. Their tendency to live extremely long lives is a primary cause of abandonment and rescue overcrowding. Parrots are notorious for requiring constant interaction, enrichment, and specialized care. They are highly intelligent, loud, and destructive, and their beaks can cause significant damage if bored or stressed.

Non-Native Turtles

Non-native turtles, such as red-eared sliders, can threaten native species when released or escaped. They compete with these local species for food and habitat and spread diseases to wild populations. Many states have specific laws regulating possession or sale of such turtle species to prevent public health threats (Salmonella), protect native wildlife, and discourage illegal animal trade.

Ferrets

Owning ferrets is illegal, most notably in California and Hawaii, primarily due to concerns over human health, environmental impact, and animal behavior. Authorities worry that ferrets could carry rabies and might bite people if improperly handled. Escaped ferrets pose a threat to native wildlife, as their hunting instincts could disrupt local ecosystems. Their hunting technique is a key reason California banned them, despite the fact that domestic ferrets rarely survive in the wild.

Badgers and Wolverines

Badgers are solitary animals with aggressive defense behaviors. Their sharp claws and teeth make them potentially dangerous in domestic settings. These wild animals are also known carriers of multiple diseases such as rabies, tuberculosis, and leptospirosis, which they can spread to humans and other animals. Additionally, capturing or keeping badgers disrupts local biodiversity and wildlife balance.

Exotic Hoofstock

Owning exotic hoof stock (animals such as zebras, camels, or giraffes) is illegal or strictly regulated in the U.S. because these large, undomesticated species pose safety risks. Due to their size, strength, and erratic behavior when scared or stressed, these animals have been known to cause injury. Their specialized care needs, such as vast enclosures and unique diets, are beyond the capabilities of typical private owners, raising animal welfare concerns.