22 Deadly Animals You Can Keep as Pets

Some people prefer unusual, exotic pets over the typical choices. For these adventurous souls, animals like poisonous frogs or even electric eels may seem fascinating. However, these creatures can be dangerous and require highly specialized care. Only experienced keepers should consider them as pets, given their lethal potential and unique needs.

Big Cats

Big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards attract some exotic pet enthusiasts. Raised from cubs, these felines can become accustomed to human interaction. However, their predatory instincts, combined with their large stature and strength, can make them unpredictable, making them a potential risk. Furthermore, their need for a large space, dietary requirements, and rigorous exercise regimens often make it near-improbable for families to meet their needs adequately. 

Alligators and Crocodiles

These ancient animals are impressive yet dangerous. Some states allow you to have them as pets. They need a big space and a habitat similar to their natural one. Their natural hunter instincts and strong bite can be a real risk to their owners.

Poison Dart Frogs

Poison dart frogs are named for their potent neurotoxins, which indigenous tribes have used for hunting. While many species lose their toxicity when adapting to captivity due to a change in diet, certain types retain a degree of these toxins.

Scorpions

Some people prefer to have species like the Emperor Scorpion for pets due to their tame temperament and low venom potency. These scorpions feed mainly on insects such as crickets and cockroaches. Handling should be limited as they can become stressed. And although their venom is weak, a pinch from their pincers can still hurt. Potential owners should bear in mind that ownership certificates or permits may be required depending on location.

Tarantulas

These big, hairy spiders are quite popular among arachnid lovers. Tarantulas, being exotic pets, also demand complex care and specific habitats. Some species pack quite a punch with their venomous bites, while others can send out skin-irritating hairs when threatened. Though typically not deadly to humans, these reactions can cause severe discomfort. 

Brazilian Wandering Spiders

Renowned for being one of the deadliest spiders in the world, the Brazilian Wandering Spider demands quite some knowledge and responsibility due to their poisonous and aggressive nature. It doesn’t weave a web like other spiders but instead hides during the daytime in termite mounds, under rocks and logs, and even inside banana plants. 

Wolves and Wolf-Dog Hybrids

Wolf dogs have inherent wild instincts and can pose a serious threat to smaller creatures, including cats, small dogs, and, in some bad circumstances, humans. Their predatory drive, woven deep into their nature, can unpredictably trigger aggressive behaviors. They can be especially dangerous around people like kids who can’t defend themselves.

Foxes

The allure of a fox’s playful nature and charming appeal often attracts pet enthusiasts. However, foxes are wild creatures with strong predatory instincts. While you can keep them as pets in some states, they require expansive, secure outdoor enclosures and a diet that replicates what they would eat in the wild. 

Monkeys

Monkeys are creatures that draw our attention with their human-like traits. Nevertheless, owning monkeys as pets poses serious threats. They are notably strong and unpredictable, leading to potential attacks. They can also carry multiple diseases, such as herpes B, which are infectious to humans. Additionally, it’s challenging to meet their complex dietary, social, and environmental needs at home.

Hyenas

Believe it or not, some fearless enthusiasts do keep hyenas as pets. But keep in mind, these strong, meat-eating animals are not suitable for everyone. Known for their laugh-like call and predatory habits, hyenas need a large amount of space and care. They can also become unpredictable and aggressive. 

Comodo Dragons

Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest lizards, are an exotic pet that definitely commands respect. Despite being dangerous, some places allow you to keep them as pets with the right permits. They can grow up to 10 feet long and possess a potent bite filled with toxic bacteria. If you’re considering one, you’ll need a lot of space and a secure enclosure, not to mention extensive expertise in handling them safely.

Servals

Servals are exotic African cats known for their impressive leaping ability. Owning a serval requires a large outdoor area, a proper carnivorous diet, and enriching mental and physical activities. They are sociable yet can potentially be a danger if mishandled. 

Raccoons

Although owning a raccoon can prove to be a tricky task, some states allow to keep them as pets. Well-known for their dexterous hands and mischief, raccoons can become dangerously aggressive pets. These animals are also capable of inflicting serious injuries. Raccoons are known to carry a lot of dangerous diseases harmful to humans and other animals. Plus, their innate curiosity can lead to a whirlwind of household hilarity and havoc. 

Sugar Gliders

Although they are tiny and look so cute, sugar gliders possess incredibly sharp teeth. They aren’t shy to use them, particularly during initial stages of companionship. You have to handle them with care because they can harm you. Also, make sure they are fully vaccinated before you take them in.

Hedgehogs

Although they are low on the danger scale compared to others on this list, hedgehogs do have special needs. These small, prickly mammals can carry salmonella, a bacterium that can cause serious illness in humans. Their sharp quills are designed for self-defense, and they will instinctively curl up and cause harm or infection when they feel threatened. They need a specific diet, temperature control, and indirect lighting for their nocturnal nature.

Skunks

Despite their natural ability to release a noxious spray as a defense mechanism, domesticated skinks are legal as pets in some states. However, they should be tamed. You also have to remove their stink glands so you can top their natural odor-release defense mechanism. Additionally, skunks are omnivores and require an intricate diet that includes vegetables, protein, and vitamin supplements to stay healthy.

Boa Constrictors

These giant slithering serpents are strangely legal to have as pets in some states. Boa constrictors have a fierce grip and can squeeze their prey to death. Keeping these large snakes as pets requires a significant amount of space. Feeding them is a task in itself. They eat live or freshly killed rodents.

Gila Monsters

The Gila Monster is one of the few venomous lizards in the world. Its venomous bite could spell a painful and risky ordeal. However, this slow-moving, visually stunning creature has a distinct personality that makes it a fascinating specimen for those who are intrigued by deadly creatures. Needless to say, it requires a well-prepared and responsible owner to care for such a dangerous yet captivating pet.

Ostriches

While it might sound fascinating to have the world’s largest bird in your backyard, ostriches are incredibly powerful and potentially dangerous. With their swift kicks and sharp claws, they can cause grave injuries. Potential owners also need to give them large spaces for them to run, along with a diverse diet. 

Piranhas

As odd as it may seem, piranhas are, indeed, legal pets in some states! They have sharp teeth and an insatiable appetite. They require spacious tanks and a diet of protein-rich foods. But beware: these fishes have been known to bite when agitated.

Electric Eels

Electric Eels, despite their name, are not actually eels but knifefish. They are well-known for producing strong electric shocks to navigate and hunt. You’ll need a special tank and knowledge about how to take care of an electric eel safely, including avoiding its strong shocks.

Chimpanzees

Despite their human-like traits and intriguing intelligence, chimps are wild at heart. They’re known for their strength and unpredictable behavior, which can turn aggressive without warning. Yet, in some areas, these creatures are kept as pets. Their exotic needs, including diet, mental stimulation, and social interaction, require special attention.