Exotic Pets That Do Well in the Cold

Many exotic pets need supplemental heat to thrive in captivity, but there are some animals that do well in—and sometimes even prefer— cold climates. If you live in an area that experiences winter and are worried about your pets' safety, then these might be good options to consider. These are just some of the exotic pets that do well if it gets chilly.

Domesticated Foxes

These special foxes are native to colder environments and can only be purchased from Russia where they thrive in the naturally cold climate. Foxes are built for this type of weather with their bushy tails and thick fur coat. No special coats or boots are needed for these pets.

Wolfdogs

A cross between domesticated dogs and wolves, wolfdogs have thick fur coats and are built for colder weather. This doesn't mean they should be housed outdoors yearround, but you won't need to worry about this dog shivering like a chihuahua. Wolfdogs require a special level of care and are not for everyone.

Chinchillas

Native to the Andes mountains, chinchillas experience temperatures that range from almost freezing to into the 80s. These rodents definitely do better if their environments are on the cooler side rather than the warmer side. They even sell granite slabs for chinchillas to help them stay cool if your house gets too warm in the summer. Everyone who has ever touched a chinchilla knows how soft they are.

Opossum

The North American opossum is used to large variations in weather and very cold winters. Opossum fur is unique because it doesn't freeze. The only other animal that has fur that doesn't freeze is the polar bear. The opossum and polar bear have fur that has hollow shafts that hold warmth in and keeps them very warm.

Skunks

Just like the opossum, skunks don't hibernate but rather hide out in burrows and forage for food in the winter just like they do in the summer. They don't explore in frigid temperatures and will wait until the weather is a little milder, but they definitely don't mind the cold.

Raccoons

Another North American native, raccoons make their homes in trees but spend all seasons of the year exploring. They don't hibernate and continue foraging for food even when there is snow on the ground. Their plush coats and tails keep them warm year-round. Their fur is dense and their guard hairs are rough to protect them from inclement weather.

These pets may be good options for you if you don't live in a warm climate, but that doesn't mean they can live outdoors in the winter. Exotic pets should be acquired from a responsible breeder or rescue, not the wild. Drastic temperature changes should also be avoided with any animal as it may cause them to become stressed and get sick.