1. Goldfish: The “Low-Maintenance” Pet That’s Anything But
Why it seems like a good idea: They’re cheap, don’t take up much space, and look cute swimming around in their little bowl. Plus, they’re sold everywhere, from pet stores to carnival booths, so how hard can they be?
Why it’s not: Per The Spruce Pet Goldfish are surprisingly high-maintenance . That tiny bowl you planned to keep them in? It’s a death trap. They need proper filtration, plenty of space, and consistent water quality. Neglect that, and you’re looking at a very short-lived roommate. Spoiler: they don’t flush themselves.
2. Iguanas: The Chill-Looking Mini-Dinosaurs
Why it seems like a good idea: Who wouldn’t want their own scaly, majestic mini-dinosaur lounging on their shoulder? They look so relaxed and exotic, like a conversation-starting pet that eats greens.
Why it’s not: Iguanas are anything but chill. They grow huge (up to 6 feet long), have razor-sharp claws, and can be incredibly aggressive if they don’t like you—which they often won’t. Also, their diet is way more complicated than just tossing them lettuce. Suddenly, that “low-key” vibe feels like a Jurassic headache.
3. Ferrets: The Mischievous, Adorable Thieves
Why it seems like a good idea: They’re small, cute, and have that playful energy that makes them seem like the perfect pocket-sized buddy. Who wouldn’t love a furry little troublemaker?
Why it’s not: Ferrets are Houdini-level escape artists who will gleefully turn your home into a playground of chaos. They’ll steal your keys, your socks, and your will to live per friendlyferret.com. And their musky smell? It doesn’t wash out. Owning one is like signing up for a 24/7 scavenger hunt where you’re always losing.
4. Monkeys: The “Mini-Human” Fantasy
Why it seems like a good idea: They’re smart, interactive, and it seems like you’d be getting a tiny, furry human best friend. Imagine teaching it tricks and having your own real-life Curious George!
Why it’s not: Monkeys are messy, destructive, and have absolutely no respect for personal boundaries. They’ll fling poop, scream at you, and wreck your home faster than a toddler on a sugar high. Plus, they have serious needs that most people can’t meet, leaving them miserable and you broke.
5. Sugar Gliders: The Adorable Night Owls
Why it seems like a good idea: These tiny, wide-eyed marsupials are incredibly cute, and the idea of a pet that glides around your house sounds magical. They’re also small, so how hard could they be?
Why it’s not: Per The American Museum of Natural History, Sugar gliders are nocturnal, which means their peak hours of activity are when you’re trying to sleep. They’re also highly social and get depressed if left alone. Unless you’re ready for a hyperactive flying squad that shrieks at midnight, maybe just admire them from afar.
6. Hedgehogs: The Prickly Little Cuteness Overload
Why it seems like a good idea: Hedgehogs are irresistibly cute with their tiny noses and waddling walk. They’re small, low-key, and don’t bark or scratch the furniture.
Why it’s not: Hedgehogs are nocturnal and spend most of their day sleeping. When they are awake, they’re often shy, prickly (literally), and don’t exactly crave affection. Add in specialized diets and temperature control needs, and you’ve got yourself a high-maintenance roommate who doesn’t even acknowledge your existence.
7. Tarantulas: The Ultimate “Cool” Pet
Why it seems like a good idea: Nothing says “I’m edgy and unique” like a massive, furry spider. They’re quiet, need little space, and will impress (or terrify) your friends.
Why it’s not: Tarantulas are for looking, not touching. If you think they’ll crawl on your hand like a docile pet, think again—they’re fragile and easily stressed. Plus, dealing with live crickets for their meals isn’t exactly glamorous. Unless you’re really into the creepy-crawly aesthetic, maybe pass on the arachnid.
8. Parrots: The Talking, Entertaining Bird
Why it seems like a good idea: A pet that talks back? Amazing! Parrots are colorful, charming, and smart enough to learn tricks and mimic your words. What’s not to love?
Why it’s not: Parrots live for decades and require constant stimulation. They scream—loudly—and might outlive you, leaving behind a feathered diva with abandonment issues. They’re also destructive and will chew through wood, wires, and anything else you thought was safe. Be prepared for a lifelong commitment to chaos.
9. Snakes: The Quiet, Exotic Companion
Why it seems like a good idea: They’re sleek, silent, and low-maintenance. Plus, feeding them once a week sounds a lot easier than walking a dog. What’s cooler than owning a slithering predator?
Why it’s not: The live-feeding thing can get messy (and emotional if you’re squeamish). And while they seem simple to care for, improper habitat setups can lead to serious health problems. Plus, when they escape—and they will—it’s a nightmare finding them. Your “chill” pet might just ruin your chill.
10. Rabbits: The Fluffy, Cuddly Myth
Why it seems like a good idea: Rabbits are adorable, soft, and look like they’d love nothing more than to cuddle all day. They seem like the ultimate easy-to-love pet for small spaces.
Why it’s not: Rabbits are skittish and hate being held. They also chew everything—cords, furniture, baseboards. And they’re not the “starter pet” you think; they require special diets and regular cleaning. Your sweet, snuggly dream might actually turn into a bundle of nervous energy with a destructive streak.
11. Goats: The Quirky Backyard Buddy
Why it seems like a good idea: Goats are hilarious, playful, and can even help mow your lawn. Owning a goat feels like a quirky and eco-friendly choice.
Why it’s not: Goats are escape artists who will climb, headbutt, and eat anything—including your garden. They’re loud, stubborn, and need space and companions to be happy. Unless you’re ready for a noisy, destructive farmhand, it’s best to enjoy goats on a petting zoo visit.
12. Exotic Cats: The Wild Side of Pet Ownership
Why it seems like a good idea: Savannahs, servals, and other exotic cats are stunning and seem like a way to own a piece of the wild. They’re sleek, majestic, and incredibly Instagrammable.
Why it’s not: Exotic cats aren’t domesticated, and they make terrible house pets. They’re destructive, skittish, and can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Oh, and when they spray to mark territory? Good luck getting that smell out. Stick to a regular housecat and save yourself the stress.
13. Chickens: Backyard Egg Providers
Why it seems like a good idea: Fresh eggs every morning? Sounds like a win! Chickens seem easy to care for, quirky, and productive, all rolled into one feathery package.
Why it’s not: Chickens are messy, noisy, and surprisingly needy. They’ll turn your yard into a mud pit, attract predators, and need a clean coop regularly. Plus, when the egg-laying days are over, you’re left with a feathery retiree eating up resources without delivering breakfast.
