Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to forgo having a pet. Many exotic pets are perfect for smaller spaces. These animals are typically compact and quiet and require minimal outdoor space. Whether renting or just prefer low-maintenance pets, exotic animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and reptiles can easily fit into your lifestyle. They don’t cause noise disturbances or mess, allowing you to enjoy the companionship without worrying about neighbors or excessive cleanup. Let’s discover the 15 best exotic pets that will thrive in your apartment.

1. Rabbits

Rabbits are incredibly popular as apartment pets, and for good reason. They’re small, quiet, and easy to train. With over 50 different breeds to choose from, you can find a rabbit that fits your space and lifestyle. Rabbits can be litter-box trained, and their grooming needs are low as they often groom themselves. However, they do enjoy chewing, so it’s important to “bunny-proof” your home by removing any exposed cords or potential hazards. Their friendly, social nature means they’ll keep you company, and most owners let them roam freely in rooms.

2. Ferrets

If you’re looking for a playful companion, ferrets make an excellent choice. They are small and quiet but full of energy. Ferrets love to explore, so you’ll need a large, secure cage to house them when you’re not around. Their inquisitive nature can get them into mischief, so it’s crucial to ferret-proof your apartment. They are generally quiet during the day, as they tend to sleep while you’re away, making them ideal for busy individuals. They are affectionate and bond closely with their owners, offering entertainment and companionship in a manageable package for apartment living.

3. Rats

Rats are surprisingly affectionate and intelligent animals that are well-suited for small living spaces. Their compact size and low-maintenance needs make them ideal for apartment living. They’re also quiet, only being active during the night but still awake enough during the day to interact with you. Rats are social creatures and enjoy human company. Their cages require minimal space, and they’re relatively low-maintenance, needing only food, water, and a clean environment. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, interactive pet that won’t take up much space, rats could be a great option.

4. Hamsters

Hamsters are another excellent pet choice for apartment living. Their small size and low maintenance make them ideal for smaller spaces. They don’t require a lot of attention and are happy in a 2-cubic-foot cage. Hamsters are clean, quiet, and easy to take care of, making them an ideal companion for individuals with busy schedules. They don’t shed much, which is helpful for allergy sufferers, and they don’t make a lot of noise. With regular handling, they can become very tame, and watching them explore their cage is a fun experience.

5. Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are friendly and social, making them ideal pets for those living in apartments. These little rodents enjoy interaction and form close bonds with their owners. While they do need more space than some other small pets, their cage requirements are still manageable for apartments. Guinea pigs are relatively quiet and won’t disturb neighbors. They enjoy having out-of-cage time to explore and socialize. Their adorable sounds and sweet personalities make them a popular choice for those looking for an easy-to-care-for, interactive pet that thrives indoors.

6. Mice

If you’re after a pet that’s small, low-maintenance, and quiet, mice are a fantastic choice. Mice are easy to care for and require only a small cage to be happy. They’re also very clean, constantly grooming themselves. Though mice are naturally skittish, they can be tamed with regular handling and care. Their playful antics are entertaining, and because they are nocturnal, they’ll be active during the night, allowing you to sleep peacefully. With their minimal care needs, they are perfect for individuals living in tight spaces and looking for a pet that won’t cause any hassle.

7. Reptiles

Reptiles like snakes and lizards are often overlooked as apartment pets, but they can make excellent companions for people with limited space. Many species, such as leopard geckos and ball pythons, require minimal space and are low-maintenance. Reptiles are quiet and solitary creatures. They don’t require large enclosures, and many are content with a small tank or aquarium. If you prefer a low-maintenance pet that doesn’t need constant attention or interaction, reptiles could be a great fit. Plus, their fascinating behaviors can be quite entertaining to observe.

8. Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs are adorable, nocturnal animals that are perfect for people living in apartments. They are quiet, clean, and don’t require a large cage—about 2 feet by 3 feet is sufficient. Hedgehogs are solitary creatures, so they thrive when left alone, which works well if you’re out during the day. They produce very little dander, making them an ideal pet for people with allergies. Despite their spiky appearance, hedgehogs are gentle and enjoy interaction when they are awake. Check local regulations before adopting a hedgehog, as some areas require permits or have restrictions.

9. Frogs

If you’re looking for a unique pet that requires little space, frogs could be the perfect option for apartment living. Many frog species, such as the African clawed frog or the American green tree frog, thrive in a 10- to 20-gallon tank, making them ideal for small spaces. Frogs are quiet and low-maintenance, requiring minimal care and only eating a few times a week. Their behavior is fascinating to observe, and they don’t demand constant interaction. However, it’s important to set up an appropriate tank environment for them, including water and plants.

10. Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are small, low-maintenance pets that are perfect for apartment living. These interesting creatures are known for switching shells as they grow, making them fun to watch. They don’t make any noise, are hypoallergenic, and don’t require much attention. Hermit crabs are social animals and do best when housed with others, but they need a spacious tank to thrive. They are also relatively easy to care for, needing only a simple habitat setup with water, food, and a shell. If you want a unique, low-commitment pet, hermit crabs could be the perfect choice.

11. Tarantulas

For those who enjoy more unconventional pets, tarantulas can be a fascinating choice. These arachnids are quiet and require minimal care, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. A 10- to 20-gallon tank is all they need to thrive. While their venom is mild and not dangerous to humans, it’s best to avoid handling them frequently. Tarantulas are low-maintenance and only require food every few days. They are solitary and don’t need constant interaction. If you’re into reptiles or spiders, a tarantula can make an interesting, low-maintenance companion.

12. Chinchillas

Chinchillas are playful, social creatures that make excellent pets for apartment dwellers. They stay clean, don’t smell much, and need very little grooming. These nocturnal animals are gentle and bond closely with their owners, making them wonderful companions. A cage that’s at least 2 feet by 2 feet is big enough to comfortably house one chinchilla. Though they enjoy interaction, they do not demand constant attention, making them ideal for people with busy schedules. Chinchillas are also hypoallergenic, making them a great option for people who suffer from allergies to pets.

13. Bearded Dragon

Bearded dragons are friendly, easy-to-care-for reptiles that make excellent apartment pets. They are relatively small and docile, with males growing up to 24 inches and females slightly smaller. Bearded dragons are known for their calm nature. They require a proper enclosure with enough space for climbing and basking (usually around 40- 60 gallons). While they need a warm habitat with a UVB light source, they are relatively low-maintenance compared to other reptiles. Their engaging personality and simple care requirements make them a popular choice for apartment dwellers.

14. Millipedes

Millipedes might not be a traditional pet, but they make a fascinating choice for those interested in unique creatures. The African giant millipede, for example, can grow up to 10 inches long and is relatively easy to care for in a small tank. These creatures are low-maintenance, hypoallergenic, and do not require a lot of space—perfect for apartment living. While they don’t make noise, they are interesting to watch as they move and interact with their environment. Millipedes require a humid environment, which can be maintained with affordable heating and humidity control equipment. 

15. Wallaby

A wallaby can be a unique and fascinating pet for those with larger apartments or homes. These small marsupials, native to Australia, are similar to kangaroos but smaller in size, typically growing to about 3 to 4 feet tall. Wallabies are friendly, social animals that require plenty of space to hop around. They are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, etc. Though rare as pets, wallabies can bond closely with their owners, offering an exotic companion for those willing to meet their special needs. However, owning a wallaby often requires a permit, depending on your location.