It makes perfect sense to assume that dogs and cats are the most common pets in America; after all, they make up a significant number of our favorite animal accounts on Instagram, attracting thousands of followers each day and taking over social media feeds.
While cats and dogs are the most popular pets in America, they aren’t the only ones! Here we’ll take a look at 10 of the cutest pets that you can get for your home that aren’t cats or dogs.
Horses
Horses are majestic animals that have been around for thousands of years. However, due to the high cost, it takes to maintain them and their upkeep, they’re not as common as you may think. The average horse costs an owner anywhere from $2,500 – $3,600 per year.
Reptiles
Reptiles are becoming increasingly popular in the US. A survey by the American Pet Products Association reveals that this type of pet ownership is most common among millennials and that more than 50% of these people own reptiles. Reptiles are fun to talk about and they can be a great source of conversation among friends or at work. However, most people tend not to take care of them properly because they require specialized knowledge and equipment which most people lack. For this reason, people should think twice before getting one.
Turtles
Who knew that turtles are one of the most popular specialty pets in America today? They’re even more popular than snakes and lizards, according to AVMA’s list of most popular pets in the USA. Despite their tough exterior, many pet owners find them to be sweet and docile creatures. If you want to adopt a turtle, start by finding out if they are legal in your area. You’ll also need to provide the proper care for them including housing, diet, and safety considerations.
Ferrets
If you’ve had the chance to interact with a ferret before, it probably didn’t take long for them to make their way into your heart. They are adorable and likable creatures of prey that will quickly steal your attention away from anything else in sight. It may come as no surprise then, that they rank among one of America’s most popular pets. With an estimated 334 out of every 1,000 households owning at least one ferret (according to AVMA calculations).
Guinea Pigs
When it comes to pet selection, guinea pigs are a popular choice. With their small size and accessibility, they may be your top pick too. Their only drawback is their short life span.
Hamsters
If you’re looking for a new pet to join your family, consider getting a hamster. They are one of the most popular pets in America and can be found at many stores across the country. In 2012, AVMA calculated that 887 out of 1,000 households owns a hamster.
Poultry
Poultry is a popular choice for households across the US. Plus, according to AVMA’s calculations, there are more poultry pets than hamsters and guinea pigs. With so many different types of poultry, it’s easy to find one you’ll love. And with all their personality and intelligence, they’re a great addition to any family.
Rabbits
After fish, rabbits are the second most common specialty pet among households. If you’re considering a rabbit as your next companion, here are some things to know. Rabbits can be litterbox trained and housebroken with patience and consistency. They also need space for exercise- an extra room or playpen is recommended.
Birds
If you’re looking for a new pet that’s low-maintenance and can provide some entertainment, consider buying or adopting a bird. Many people enjoy keeping birds as pets. This is because they are fun to watch and an interesting conversation piece that can be passed around at family gatherings.
Fish
Fish are the third most popular pet in America, with nearly 12% of American households owning at least one. Owners say they make attractive home decor and that maintaining them is a fun and easy hobby. Certain breeds like saltwater fish tend to be less common than freshwater because it can cost more to maintain those types of fish on average, according to Aquarium Architecture.