Have you ever wondered to yourself "I wonder if I can legally own a squirrel as a pet in Texas"? Or maybe some other exotic animal like a tiger, or a sloth? Well I have some answers for you!

What Exotic Animals Can You Own as Pets in Texas?

In the great state of Texas, sometimes basic pets like cats and dogs, or maybe a parrot can get pretty boring to some! Call it the "Tiger King" effect where suddenly everyone wants to own a tiger, or at least some sort of exotic animal.

Tigers, although majestic, are not native to Texas- however, you can still legally own a tiger. There is a process, and it is required for you to get a permit but you can totally own a tiger in Texas.

Here are other exotic animals you can legally own as pets in Texas!

Other animals you can legally own as pets in Texas include:

• Kinkajou
• Callitrichids
• Spotted Genet
• Finger Monkeys
• and Hedgehogs!

I would totally love to own a hedgehog!

Much like any pet, these exotic pets are a big responsibility- they require lots of time and attention!

Alternatively, there are a few animals that are either completely prohibited from owning as a pet, or require some sort of permit like:

• Chimpanzees
• Cheetahs
• Jackals
• Cougars
• Lynx
• Baboons
• Gorillas
• Jaguars
• Coyotes
• Bobcats
• Hybrids
• Orangutans
• Leopards
• Lions
• Bears
• Ocelots

Also, if you're looking to own an alligator as a pet, you'll need a permit, and make sure that it isn't stolen from a zoo!

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You can find out more about what animals you can pet, and what they might require here.