Exotic Pets You Can Own In New Jersey

When you think of pets, of course, dogs and cats come to mind.

In 2024, 66 percent of U.S. households own a pet. That's up from 56 percent in 1988, according to Forbes.com.

The report states that dogs are the most popular (65 million households own a dog),  followed by cats (47 million households), and freshwater fish (11 million households).

Maybe you have a hampster, a bunny, or an iguana, but what are your thoughts on a pet raccoon or a pet flying squirrel?

One requires a permit, the other doesn't in New Jersey.

When I was younger I remember someone in my neighborhood having a pet ferret. It was super cute. She would even take it for walks on a leash around town.

Can't say I know a lot of people with a pet ferret, she was the only one. There are certain animals I'm surprised you're allowed to have as a pet here in New Jersey.

The Courier Post had a recent article about exotic pets in New Jersey and which ones require a permit.

New Jersey Exotic Pets

• Raccoons (requires a permit)
• Emu
• Hedgehogs (requires a permit)
• Boa snakes (requires a permit; excludes boa constrictors)
• Flying squirrel
• Llama
• Poison dart frog (requires a permit)
• Wallaby (requires a permit)
• Kinkajou (requires a permit)
• Ostrich

Read More: Lawn Mower Rules You Need to Follow in New Jersey

A pet flying squirrel!! A raccoon!! Really?!

Exotic animals often require a lot more care compared to a dog or a cat. That's why it's a good idea to check with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's website before purchasing any of these exotic animals so you know what to expect.

Here are some more exotic pets you can own in New Jersey.