Owning a pet can be incredibly rewarding, but not all pets are as low-maintenance as they might seem. Some require unexpected levels of care, commitment, and attention to thrive. From reptiles with specific habitat needs to rabbits that demand constant supervision, these animals often surprise their owners with how demanding they can be. Whether you’re curious or planning to bring a new pet home, these insights might make you think twice.

1. Parrots

Parrots are captivating pets known for their intelligence and ability to mimic sounds, but their care demands are extensive. These birds can live up to 80 years, requiring a lifelong commitment. Parrots thrive on interaction and mental stimulation, which means they need significant daily attention. Neglect can lead to behavioral problems like feather plucking. Their diet isn’t simple birdseed; fresh fruits, vegetables, and specialized pellets are essential. Additionally, their large cages need regular cleaning, and they require ample free-roaming space, making them a challenging yet rewarding companion.

2. Rabbits

Despite their cuddly reputation, rabbits are not beginner-friendly pets. They require spacious housing that allows them to jump and play, along with daily free-roaming time. When outside their enclosures, they are notorious for chewing on cords, furniture, and carpets. Their diets must include unlimited hay, fresh vegetables, and clean water. Cleaning their cages daily is a must to maintain hygiene. Rabbits also frighten easily, making them unsuitable for homes with young children. Their sprinter-like energy levels and sensitive digestive systems add to their high-maintenance needs.

3. Reptiles

Reptiles like geckos and bearded dragons might seem like low-maintenance pets, but their care is surprisingly complex. Their enclosures must maintain precise temperatures and humidity levels, often requiring specialized UVB lighting. These reptiles’ diets include live insects dusted with supplements, which can be an ongoing task. They also grow significantly, necessitating large tanks—up to 120 gallons in some cases. Regular cleaning and monitoring are vital, as neglected habitats can quickly become unhealthy. Their unique care requirements make reptiles a time-intensive choice for pet owners.

4. Turtles

Turtles, while small and charming at first, grow rapidly and need large aquariums—10 gallons of water per inch of shell length. This means a mature turtle often requires a tank of at least 120 gallons, equipped with proper lighting, filters, and temperature control. They are messy creatures, so frequent tank cleaning and water changes are necessary. Their diets combine pellets, live protein, and fresh greens, requiring consistent attention. Long-lived and complex, turtles are not the low-maintenance pets they may appear to be.

5. Ferrets

Ferrets are playful and affectionate, but their care demands often surprise owners. They need large, multi-level cages and at least four hours of supervised play outside their enclosures each day. Left unchecked, ferrets can cause havoc, chewing on cords, stealing items, and finding their way into tight spaces. Their diets must be high in protein and fat, as they are obligate carnivores. Regular grooming and cleaning are essential due to their musky odor. Ferrets require dedicated care and plenty of interaction to stay happy and healthy.

6. Hamsters

Hamsters may seem like a low-effort pet, but their care requires diligence. Most commercial cages are too small, failing to meet their need for exercise and burrowing. Nocturnal by nature, they may keep you awake at night with their activities. Hamsters also breed rapidly, so housing males and females together is risky. Their diets must be balanced, as seed mixes alone are insufficient. Regular cage cleaning and ensuring enough stimulation are necessary to prevent stress and illness in these tiny creatures.

7. Aquatic Fish Tanks

Fish tanks are often thought to be serene and low-maintenance, but their upkeep can be surprisingly demanding. To keep fish healthy, water conditions must be meticulously managed, including regular testing for pH levels, ammonia, and nitrate levels. Many species have specific dietary needs, and overfeeding can cause water quality issues. Tanks also require routine cleaning, filter maintenance, and the right balance of lighting and heating. The larger and more diverse your aquarium, the more attention it needs, making it a more challenging hobby than most expect.

8. Livestock Animals

Small livestock like goats and chickens may seem manageable, but they require more than a simple backyard setup. These animals need ample space to roam, predator-proof enclosures, and specific diets to thrive. Their care often involves daily cleaning, grooming, and maintenance of coops or barns. Livestock also produces a significant amount of waste, adding to the workload. Additionally, finding veterinary care for farm animals can be challenging, often leaving owners as first responders in emergencies.