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.

Waldemer Brandt via Unsplash
Waldemer Brandt via Unsplash
loading...

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!

Exotic Pets You Can Legally Own in Texas

Adorable and legal! Here are just a few of the exotic animals that you can legally own in Texas!

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

  • Kinkajou
  • Callitrichids
  • Spotted Genet
  • Finger Monkeys
  • and Hedgehogs!
Sierra Nicole via Instagram
Sierra Nicole via Instagram
loading...

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!

KLAQ El Paso logo
Enter your number to get our free mobile app

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

Texas Small Towns Share These 7 Awesome Qualities

7 things you will find in almost every small Texas town.

More From KLAQ El Paso