There are lots of benefits to having a pet. Cats, dogs and other furry animals become more like family members than pets, so it’s easy to see why so many people adopt them. What about pests, though. Can they be pets too? That depends on whom you ask, but the general answer is “Sure, why not?”

Reasons to Adopt a Pest as a Pet

Why on earth would anyone adopt a mouse, rat, spider or other pest as a pet? There are actually plenty of compelling reasons to do so. Roaches, ants and other pests are tiny and can be kept in small aquariums. Small household pests require minimal amounts of food and water, so they are affordable to care for. Unlike dogs, in particular, pests like mice and spiders require very little upkeep. If you lead a busy life, adopting a pest as a pet is a great way to enjoy caring for another living creature without a major time commitment.

How to Adopt a Pest as a Pet

If you want to adopt a pest as a pet, couldn’t you just grab one the next time it crosses your path? Absolutely not. Pests that come from the wild often harbor diseases that can pose major health risks to humans. Another problem is you could accidentally bring a venomous spider or destructive ants into your home. For safety’s sake, visit a local pet store or certified entomologist to adopt the pest of your choice. By doing this, you’ll also be able to ask questions and learn more about your new pet before bringing it home. Whether you adopt pests as pets for your kids or yourself, it’s sure to be an interesting experience!