The 21 Most Unique Pets Money Can Buy

Are you looking for a pet that stands out from the crowd? Maybe you’ve already had your fill of cats and dogs, and you’re just looking for something with a little extra wow factor. Then this list is for you.

From reptiles to birds, these creatures aren’t your typical furry friends. And many of them are even legal (in most places). Let’s look into these unique pets to see just how fascinating and perfect for the right kind of owner they can be.

These tiny marsupials glide through the air and love to snuggle close to you. They are very social and active. They thrive in pairs and need nightly playtime,  so make sure you make time. Think of them as squirrels with built-in wings that are hidden.

Axolotls even have unique and exotic names! They live underwater their entire lives and keep a cute grin on their faces that just makes you want to smile back. They are unique in the fact that they regenerate limbs and come in wild colors. These are perfect for aquarium lovers.

Kinkajous are rainforest mammals with very long tails and a love for fruit. They’re playful and curious but nocturnal, so you’ll be bonding late at night. With this animal, you can think monkey energy without the monkey mischief.

Tarantulas are not for the squeamish. It takes a certain type of person to appreciate this animal. They are low-maintenance and oddly calming to watch. They’re quiet, clean, and don’t need much space.

Miniature donkeys are easy to steal anyone's heart. They are sweet and make great outdoor companions if you’ve got the space. They love attention and aren’t shy about demanding treats or belly rubs from their humans.

With their oversized ears and energetic zoomies, fennec foxes look like something like your child’s stuffed animal. They’re playful, curious, and surprisingly loud. They definitely are not your average house pet, but they are endlessly entertaining.

Servals are sleek African wildcats that look like miniature cheetahs. They’re stunning creatures to behold. But they require lots of space and commitment. This animal is definitely not for beginners. But, if you’re ready for the responsibility, you’ll be the envy of the neighborhood.

These gentle giants love water, naps, and companionship. They’re social creatures that can be surprisingly affectionate. Just make sure you have a kiddie pool for this oversized guinea pig cousin. They sure do love to play!

If you want a companion that can talk back, then this is the bird for you. They are known for their intelligence and mimicry. African Greys will absolutely talk circles around you. With proper care and enrichment, they become lifelong companions and endless amounts of sass. 

Pygmy goats are hilarious and full of personality. This goat loves to spend its time jumping, climbing, and nibbling everything in sight. This animal is not only perfect for farm life, but also for those who just might want a little bit of adorable chaos in their lives.

Hedgehogs may look prickly, but they’re gentle and surprisingly low-maintenance. They like nighttime adventures and curling up in cozy spaces. Just make sure you’re ready for a little bonding time and late-night snack duty. Don’t worry you can join them on these late-night snack runs!

Wallabies are a curious and surprisingly cuddly pet for a marsupial. They require secure outdoor areas and special diets, but their playful nature and hopping antics make them worth the extra effort. And who can deny this adorable face?

Do you need a little bit of color in your life? These exotic frogs are bright, colorful, and often no bigger than a golf ball. They easily bring life to any terrarium. From dart frogs to tree frogs, they’re beautiful to watch.

Silkies are chickens with poofy feathers and surprisingly cuddly personalities. They’re great for backyards and perfect if you want pets that lay eggs and look like the plush toys your kids have in their room. 

With fur so soft it feels unreal, chinchillas are clean, quiet, and full of quirky type habits. They need dust baths instead of water baths, which makes them very unique. They prefer cool temps, but make amazing furry friends.

Believe it or not, de-scented skunks are a thing! They can be affectionate and even litter-trained. They look like a mix between a cat and a raccoon. And they also have a smart and playful attitude. And what’s surprising is that they are also loyal to their owners.

This iguana knows it’s royalty amongst lizards. The green iguana can grow over 5 feet long, and they love to bask in the sun. Now, they're not cuddly, but they're fascinating to watch and handle, especially if you’re into reptiles with a bit of drama.

These chubby little burrowers are super social and need plenty of attention. If they are raised right, they will bond deeply with their owners. You might even be able to get them to give you little “kisses.”

Some unique pets you don’t have to focus on very much. Well, macaques may be adorable and incredibly smart, but they are also mischievous and demanding. You’ll need to pay attention to them. If you're thinking of getting one, be prepared for full-time care. 

Yes, you can legally own a small crocodile species in some places! Now talk about unique with this one. Cuvier’s dwarf caimans are fierce-looking but surprisingly shy. They need specialized care and large aquatic enclosures, but they’re seriously cool to observe. And who among your friends could say that they have a pet as cool as this?

These oddballs from Madagascar look like hedgehogs but act more like shrews. Tenrecs are rare but if you get one they are super low-maintenance. If you want a tiny, weird pet no one else has this one just might be it.