Pregnant Guinea Pig Care

Female guinea pigs become fertile beginning as early as four weeks although pregnancy is not recommended until body weight has reached one pound. If the female is too small she may have trouble delivering the babies and special steps will need to be taken. Consult your veterinarian on the methods you can use to safely help a young sow if you find a pregnant one on your hands.

The average guinea pig pregnancy can last from 64 to 72 days. A female can give birth to one to six babies with three to four being average. Some sources indicate that the longer the gestation period the smaller the litter. By the time birth is eminent, the weight of the babies will account for 30% of the female's total body weight.

In order to support this growth expect your guinea pig to require more food and water as she could be supporting up to six babies. Be sure that the food being fed is particularly high in vitamin C as requirements double to 20 mgs per day during pregnancy. If food pellets are being used this is a good time to double check the quality of the product - look for 100% of the daily requirement of vitamin C as well as 20% crude protein and 16% fiber. Supplement her as usual with fresh fruits and vegetables focusing on foods high in vitamin C. Recommended foods include parsley, cabbage, and dandelion.

During this time be sure and remember to continue to let the pregnant female out for exercise and play. Be careful to avoid unnecessary stomach squeezing as well as stress on the female.

Advice about when to move the pregnant guinea pig into a separate cage is mixed. What is known for sure is that by the time the female gives birth, she'll need to be moved into a separate cage. Male guinea pigs will be a threat to the puppies and the female will be fertile again immediately. No female should have back to back litters as it is cruel and detrimental their health. Some sources indicate that if neutered the father of the puppies can remain in the cage with the mother. If the father is in the cage during birth he may assist with delivery by cleaning and warming the babies. Cooperation is not guaranteed and if the female appears distressed by the presence of the male - remove him from the cage. How early the female is moved is dependent on how much room there is in the existing cage and whether or not the pregnant female appears to be enjoying the company of others. If worried, move the female. In general though, a week before birth should be the minimum.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Toop

How to Properly Bury Your Pet

When pet loss occurs there are several details that must be attended to. In addition to thinking of ways to memorialize your pet, you must also make a decision on what to do with the body of your deceased pet. While this certainly seems like the worst decision to make, it is a necessary one. Many people opt to bury their pet in a pet cemetery or in another special outdoor spot, such as a backyard area or garden.

While burying your pet is a difficult thing to do, when you do it properly, it can actually be a very healing way to memorialize your pet. Many pet owners opt to put pet grave markers in the spot where their precious companion is buried to ensure there is always a spot to visit and remember the joyous times you shared. There are however, some things to keep in mind when burying your pet to ensure they are buried in the proper manner.

To start, decide if you are going to bury your pet in a casket or not. There are a number of fairly inexpensive pet caskets available online for those that can't stand the thought of handling the remains of their pet in any other manner. Some pet owners opt to wrap the remains in a blanket or cloth, sometimes even the pet's favorite blanket (if they had one) and others choose to remain as natural as possible and bury the remains with nothing at all. Be sure to dig deep enough so that the remains are not affected by weather conditions or other animals scavenging for food. If you have opted to bury your pet in a pet cemetery, there is staff on hand that will usually take of these details for you. Also be sure to check both with your state and county to find out what their rules and regulations are regarding pet burial.

Once you've placed your pet in the grave, you, and whoever you invited to the burial, might opt to say a few words or share some thoughts about your pet and what they meant in your life. This is a shortened pet memorial, which can be an accompaniment to the larger, more elaborate service. Once you've covered the grave, place a pet marker of some sort on the space so you will always know it's there. Some pet owners purchase an official pet grave marker engraved with their pet's name, date of birth, date of death and a favorite saying or quote about their pet. Others choose something more natural, like planting a tree or plant over the space to symbolize the great circle of life. This part of the pet memorial is a personal choice and should be decided according to whatever you feel comfortable doing.

Pet loss and the subsequent burying of your pet can be such a traumatic process. By conducting a proper burial, you ensure the remains are ensconced deep in the earth and not accessible to other scavengers to dig up. Moreover, using a pet headstone or plant or tree of some sort as a pet memorial is a great way to have a constant and positive reminder of the profound impact your pet had on your life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Colleen_Mihelich

All About the Guinea Pig

Today the guinea pig is known as an eminently delightful, loving pet considered well suited for children. The history of the animal, or Cavia Porchellus, is less well known. Guinea pigs originated in South America where they lived in the wild and were hunted for food until they were domesticated as early as 5000 BC. The animals were then brought to Europe in the 16th century by European traders where they then became "high status" pets - even Queen Elizabeth I had a piggie!

Why "Pig?"

The exact history of the name "guinea pig" is not well known. Some people believe the name was given because of the pig-like squeal the animal makes. Other people believe the comparison has more to do with the physical appearance, or the time spent eating.

Contributions to Science

Today the guinea pig is well known not just as pet but also as a research animal due to certain physiological similarities with humans. While this is sad for those of us who are fans of the animals, the guinea pig is directly responsible for the creation of a variety of life saving medications and medical procedures. Guinea pigs are still used in medical research for juvenile diabetes, tuberculosis, scurvy, and pregnancy complications.

The Advantages as a Pet

Guinea pigs are part of a group of pets known as "pocket pets" - small animals, usually rodents and hypothetically small enough to fit in one's pocket including rats, mice, rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, and ferrets. Unlike smaller animals, guinea pigs are easier to catch if they escape and due to their size, less likely to hide within furniture or other small crevices that are hard to get to. These sweet furry friends are also less likely to destroy one's wooden furniture but they still require supervision during floor time just to be on the safe side. Guinea pigs are also happy to stay in a cage during the day and will happily return your affection using their own special language of chirps, purrs, and squeaks. Lastly, piggies are known for the adorable tendency to "popcorn" - jump in the air just like kernels of corn that become heated.

Classroom Learning Tool

For years teachers have been keeping guinea pigs in classrooms to be cared for and played with by the children. On the weekends and during extended breaks teachers or students would then take the pet home and care for him or her. While some people still consider this a useful tool for developing a wide variety of projects for students from scientific knowledge to personal responsibility, to budgeting and cage planning, there are a growing number of opponents to this use. Many people feel that being kept alone in a classroom without actual owners is too lonely and cruel. Other people suggest that animals should not be used to teach responsibility as only the animal will suffer the consequences of neglect.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Christine_Jones

Types of Cat Barrier & Their Benefits

Cats, similar to dogs, are physically active domesticated animals and letting them roam around inside your house without supervision could cause damage and scratches to your beddings and furniture. If you want to prevent that from happening, the use of cat barriers such as cat doors, enclosure or playpen will be very helpful to keep your feline friend in a safe and contained area. Such pet containment systems are also a great way to keep your cat away from aggressive dogs and other dangerous stray animals in the neighborhood.

Here are a few types of cat barriers and the many good benefits they can bring to you and your beloved cat:

Cat Doors
Cat barrier, in the form of a cat door, will allow your kitty to enter and exit the house in a safe manner. As you all know, cats are naturally territorial and they immensely enjoy playing inside and outside the house. If you have a small cat door installed specifically for her, it can make the life of your cat easier and convenient. Hence, there’s no more need to exert effort to open the main door at all times to let her out or in.

Cat Flaps
This unique feline door design will let your cat to enter and exit a house on their own without needing you to open the main door from time to time, while providing protection against wind, rain and other harsh elements.

Cat Enclosures
For outdoor use, cat enclosures are very functional to contain your cat in the backyard or the park. More than being a cage, this spacious cat containment system can serve as an outdoor feline barrier where your furry friend can play, run, exercise and rest safely while enjoying the beauty of the outside world.

Cat Playpens
For indoor use, on the other hand, cat playpens are a great solution. This type of cat barrier provides a comfortable space for your feline pet to stretch out, move around and play inside the house, while preventing her to get in touch with fragile objects such as furniture and other precious decorations. Cat playpen is also ideal to use if you leave your cat home alone.

Dog Containment System Importance

Looking after your beloved dog at all times is your responsibility, and in cases when your canine’s behavior becomes uncontrollable, the use of dog containment system can be very useful. Leaving your dog unattended might cause troubles inside or outside your house. You can crate train your dog or put him in dog crates but it will not give him the freedom to roam around.

Besides pampering your dog, it is equally important to give him the necessary freedom and space where he can play and enjoy the beauty of the outside world while ensuring his safety.

Here are some of benefits of using dog containment devices:

With the help of pet containment systems such as dog exercise pens and dog kennels, leaving your canine alone will no longer be an issue! Dog containment devices can either be wireless, electronic or motorized that are installed in traditional fences or under the ground. They are generally portable and can be set up in a few minutes. Many pet containment systems available in the market these days are battery-operated and comes with a training collar that is placed around the dog’s neck. The collar has a receiver that detects when the dog is getting near the wire. Within this boundary, the collar will give a signal to your canine by discharging static stimulation.

Other systems are wireless and have constant radio signal to create a “safe zone” for your pet. Having said that, the primary benefit of using dog containments is that they have the ability to teach your dog to behave properly and stay only within specific locations. Electronic dog containment is also a lot cheaper than setting up traditional metal or wooden dog fences.

You can also prevent your dog from running away or stepping outside the house if you install dog containment devices. This can be particularly effective for controlling aggressive dogs that can destroy your neighbor’s property or attack passersby. You can also keep you dog away from valued properties and causing damage to the flowers, shrubs and other things in your garden or backyard. Dogs, especially puppies, are highly prone to getting lost when they venture out. In order to avoid such incidents from happening, dog owners must install dog containment devices.

How can we make sure our pets and our new baby will live together harmoniously?

Many pets are very tolerant of small children, but it's still important to be aware of potential dangers and take precautions you can take to avoid them, especially once your baby is crawling and walking.

While your baby is tiny, you can generally manage to keep him and the pets apart most of the time. Keep animals out of the room he sleeps in, and use a cat net on the pram or pushchair your baby uses downstairs or in the garden.

Dogs need supervision when babies and children are around. Even the most tolerant of dogs can be unwell or bad tempered sometimes. Most cats will simply escape if a child is teasing or hurting them, but some will scratch and bite. You may find it very helpful to use a safety gate to keep your pets and your children apart at least some of the time. These gadgets can also help keep your baby away from animal foods and litter trays.

Double check with your vet that your pets have been adequately wormed, and never leave worming tablets or other pet medications where your baby can reach them. If your pet has free range of the garden, you may need to check it over and use a pooper scooper before letting your child outside. You could also fence the garden in such a way that there is a safe baby area and a separate pet area. Lastly, curious babies have been known to use a cat flap to escape into the garden, so you may need to leave the lock in it while your baby is around.

If you have little children and are thinking of getting a pet especially for them, choose an animal that does not have to live in the house all the time, such as a guinea pig or rabbit. These pets can have cages outside in a sheltered place, and your children can visit them and handle them for short periods of time while under your supervision. Later, when your children are older and can understand that animals need to be respected, is the time to get them a cat or dog.

World's Most Unique and Weirdest Aqualand Animals

1. Budgett's Frog (Lepidobatrachus laevis)

This amphibian is also called Escuerzo or Wide-mouth frog, an endangered species of frog due to habitat loss. It is

native to Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia and lives on dry savanna, dry shrub land, freshwater marshes and ponds.

Budgett's frogs are very rare to find in a traditional chain pet shop. Due to their comical appearance, they are attractive

to amphibian keepers. This frog is aggressive and has been known to bite when cornered by a human or predator

2. Mexican Burrowing Toad (Rhinophrynus dorsalis)

Distinct among the frogs, the Mexican Burrowing Toad's tongue is projected directly out the front of the mouth, instead

of being flipped out, as in all other frogs. It is the only species with over 190 million years of independent evolution and

is the most evolutionarily distinct amphibian species on Earth today; a fruit bat, polar bear, killer whale, kangaroo and

human are all more similar to one another than this species is to any other amphibian. This frog lives from the southern

Texas through Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador to Nicaragua and Costa Rica.

3. Barred Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma mavortium)

This unique-looking creature named Barred Tiger Salamander is the State Amphibian of Kansas, USA. It is a species

of salamander found from southwestern Canada in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, south

through the western US to Texas, and northern Mexico. It is a species with a broad head and a bulky body. Its skin is

moist and capable of growing to 14 inches or 35 cm in length.

4. Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis)

This is one of the freakiest looking creatures on Earth - the Purple Frog. It is also known as Pignose Frog and is

native to Western Ghats in India. The frog's reclusive lifestyle is what caused the species to escape earlier notice

by biologists. It was discovered only in 2003. This frog's cry sounds more like one from a chicken. The frog spends

most of the year underground, surfacing only for about two weeks, during the monsoon, for purposes of mating.

5. Common Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus)

This weird-looking amphibian is endemic to northeastern US and parts of Canada. Mudpuppies prefer shallow

water with many places to hide, but have been found at depths of up to 90 feet and may live for up to 20 years. This

creature is nocturnal but can be active in the day in muddy or weed-choked waters. A carnivorous, it feeds on fish,

fish eggs, crayfish, insects, and mollusk.

6. Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum)

Axolotls fail to undergo metamorphosis and remain aquatic and gilled through adulthood. This unusual species

originates from Mexico. It also has the ability to regenerate most body parts. They are commonly kept as pets in the

US, UK, Australia, Japan and other countries.

Axolotl is one of the most popular weird amphibians in the world. This distinct creature should not be confused with

waterdogs and mudpuppies fully-aquatic salamanders which are not closely related to the axolotl but bear a superficial

resemblance.

7. Neuse River waterdog (Necturus lewisi)

The Neuse River Waterdog is found in rivers of North Carolina. It is a medium-sized Necterus with a rusty brown

dorsal side with many large, bluish black spots. The ventral side is dark brown to grey and also spotted. Males and

females are of a similar size and grow to a length of 16.5-28 cm from the tip of snout to tip of tail.

8. Suriname Horned Frog (Ceratophrys cornuta)

This odd-looking creature with exceptionally wide mouth known as Ceratophrys cornuta is also called as Amazonian

horned frog. This bulky frog may grow to a length of up to 20 cm. It is found in the northern part of South America. It has

horn-like projections above its eyes. Tadpoles of the Surinam horned frog attack each other (and tadpoles from other

species) soon after being hatched.

9. Olm (Proteus anguinus)

This blind animal native to southern Europe is also called Proteus. It lives in the waters that flow underground through

this extensive limestone region. It is the only European exclusively cave-dwelling chordate. It is also occasionally called

the "human fish" by locals because of its skin color, similar to that of Caucasians. This animal is most notable for its

adaptations to a life of complete darkness in its underground habitat. Although it is blind, its sense of smell and hearing,

are acutely developed. It also lacks any skin pigmentation. In contrast to most amphibians, the Olm is entirely aquatic,

and it eats, sleeps, and breeds underwater.

10. Texas Blind Salamander (Eurycea rathbuni)

Blind creature like the Texas Blind Salamander is a rare cave-dwelling amphibian. It is endemic to Texas. This animal

has blood-red external gills for absorbing oxygen from the water and grows to a length of 13 cm or 5 in. Its diet include

blind shrimp, snails, and amphipods

11. Albino Pacman Frog (Ceratophrys ornata)

This freaky frog is also known as Albino Argentine Horned Frog or Argentine Wide-mouthed Frog. It inhabits the rain

forests of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. A voracious eater, it will attempt to swallow anything that moves close to its

wide mouth, such as insects, small birds and mammals, lizards and other frogs, even if it would suffocate in the process.

Except for the Texas Blind salamander and Olm, most of these amphibians are good pets.

Hope you enjoyed this. Than you!

Richest Pets

There is soo much interest about the worlds richest people but little did we know that the pets are also chassing fast!! Below are the list of the richest pets in the world, if they can become that rich…!

1. Gunther IV - Gunther IV is considered the world’s richest dog. His dad, Gunther III, was bequeathed a $124 million trust in 1992 when their owner, Countess Karlotta Lieberstein passed away. Since inheriting his former mistesses millions, Gunther III has passed on his fortune and legacy to his son Guther IV. The German Shepherd has successfully bid on Madonna’s old Miami mansion and a rare white truffle. For the latter, Gunther himself attended the auction accompanied by two handlers. There are reports however, that Gunther may be a hoax.

2. Kalu the Chimp - You think it’s nuts to leave millions of dollars to a German Shepherd? How about a chimpanzee? Kalu inherited Patricia O’Neill’s $109 million fortune to ensure her husband wouldn’t get a penny. The fortune includes a farm and mansion in Australia.

3. Tobey Rimes – Tobey wasn’t your ordinary dog, he enjoyed living a life opulence in the New York City home he shared with Ella Wendel. He didn’t have to worry about giving up that life either as she left him $92 million upon her death.

4. Gigoo the $10 Million Chicken – If there’s any proof rich people are a little screwy, this is it. Gigoo, a hen for Pete’s sake, inherited $10 million.

5. Frankie – Frankie the dog resides in a mansion in San Diego. He inherited $5.3 million upon his owner’s death.

The World’s Strangest Feral Animals

Everyone has seen their share of once-domestic cats who have left the litter-box behind in favor of an outdoor life. Feral cats have made the transition easily. They are natural predators and able to fend for themselves. Other domesticated species seem, at first, to be less able to make it in the big, bad world. But pet birds, farm animals, and even aquarium fish have been able to thrive in the wild in certain situations. Here are some examples of domestic species that have unexpectedly made a life for themselves outside the cage.

Australia’s Feral Camels

Camels were imported to Australia to help with the exploration and settlement of the Outback. Their use declined with the advent of railways and automobiles, but the camels continued to thrive in the harsh environment. Some estimates claim that there are nearly 0ne million humped creatures on the continent. Because of their rapidly increasing numbers, hunting and eating camels is encouraged.

Feral Parakeets

The hardy monk parakeets, also called Quaker parrots or Quaker parakeets, have become famous residents of urban areas like Chicago’s Hyde Park. These wild parakeets are descended from pets and have somehow managed to adapt to the conditions and thrive in the city. They are larger and louder than common budgies.

Feral Honey Bees

Most bees were born in the wild. However, some, like the one in Southeastern Australia in the picture, were actually descended from domesticated honey bees. In the wind, they continue their hive lifestyle, creating honey that will never find its way into a jar.

Thailand’s Soi Dogs

A Bangkok alleyway (soi) is bound to have a few rather mangy residents. Feral soi dogs are sometimes fed by compassionate residents and sometimes able to scrounge food from trash or roadkill. They are as much a part of the city’s personality as its markets and temples.

Aquarium Fish in the Wild

Most of the tropical fish species that you’d find in a pet store are bred specifically for the tank environment. Hardy fish like koi and common goldfish are able to survive is most freshwater environments even if they were born in a tank. For other fish, like the Pearl Cichlids that wreak havoc in Northern Australian streams, a more specific settings is needed to survive.

Wild Parrots

Perhaps the most famous animals on this list are wild parrots. The red-masked parrots who starred in the documentary The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill are the poster children of the wild parrot population in the US. In fact, there are communities of parrots all along the West Coast that are equally welcomed by residents.

Feral Farm Animals

It would seem that most farm animals are ill-equipped to survive in the wild. What would a pig used to feeding at the trough do outside of its pen? But feral pigs and sheep are commonplace in rural areas around the world, especially in agricultural areas in the US. Some are hunted like wild animals and others are considered a nuisance, eating crops and forever altering eco-systems.

Feral Cows of Hong Kong

It is a common sight worldwide: cows sitting lazily in fields, chomping on grass. It is the same on Lantau, a sparsely inhabited island in the territory of Hong Kong. The difference is that these cattle do not belong to a dairy or beef farm. They are feral, but that doesn’t seem to have changed their lifestyle much.

Hawaii’s Feral Mouflon

Hawaii’s countryside is being eaten by the rapidly expanding populations of feral sheep and European mouflon. Mouflon are thought to be the forefather’s of domestic sheep. Their appetites mean that they can mow through vegetation quickly. With no natural predators besides humans, populations are difficult to control.

Bali’s Tame/Wild Monkeys

Though they are not, and were never, domesticated, it would be easy to mistake the Crab-eating Macaques at Ubud Monkey Park on Bali for trained pets. They pester visitors for hand-outs and some are able to turn on the charm the way a clever dog who wants a treat might. According to Balinese lore, the monkeys are protectors of the area’s Hindu temples.

Feral Guinea Pigs

Last year, people began seeing a strange rodent on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu. It’s not that guinea pigs are a rare animal; it’s just that they are usually found in cages with wheels and water-bottles (or as the main course of an Andean meal). The large litters that these rodents can have makes them a danger to any natural environment into which they are introduced. Some speculate that the original 40 sightings of feral guinea pigs last year where the result of one pregnant female being released.

Pet Millionaires: Seven Cats and Dogs Who Are Actually Richer than You

We hear about millionaires — and billionaires — quite frequently. But less often do we hear about pet millionaires. They do, however, exist. Since 1923, when the first reported case of a pet inheritance was affirmed in Willett vs. Willett, pets have been receiving money. Sometimes quite a lot of money. Here are seven dogs and seven cats (in particular order) that are probably richer than you:

Some of the World’s Richest Dogs

These dogs know how to live the high life. Seriously. They give a whole new meaning to the phrase “being treated like a dog.”

1. Gunther IV, the German Shepherd: This dog actually received his inheritance from his father, Gunther III, a German Shepherd who received an inheritance from Karlotta Liebenstein, a German countess. Gunther IV has bought a Miami villa from Madonna and won a rare white truffle in an auction. Learn more about Gunther IV on a Web site devoted to him and those he hangs out with. He’s worth about $372 million right now, thanks to his growing trust fund.
2. Oprah’s dogs: Oprah Winfrey has several animals, including some dogs. She wants to make sure that her dogs are cared for when she is gone. Her will specifies that that her dogs receive $30 million for their care. (Just a drop in the bucket when you look at the billions Oprah is worth.) True, that money will be split amongst all dogs that she has, but even so, each and every one is probably richer than you are. They’re definitely richer than I am.
3. Trouble Helmsley: New York’s “Queen of Mean”, Leona Helmsley, famously cut her grandchildren out of her will, but left her Maltese terrier $12 million. However, a judge knocked $10 million off that amount, so that brings the amount to $2 million. Additionally, Trouble will be not be so well taken care of after death, as the dog can’t be buried in the Helmsley mausoleum, due to cemetary requirements and state law.
4. Flossie: Drew Barrymore’s yellow Labrador retriever and chow mix, Flossie, has been left a home. Flossie awakened Barrymore and then-boyfriend Tom Green when a fire raged through the home. Barrymore amended her will to leave the home, valued at $3 million, to Flossie in return for this possibly life-saving deed.
5. Tina and Kate: These two collie crosses received $1 million for their care upon the death of their owner Nora Hardwell. In addition to the provision for their care, Tina and Kate also enjoy unlimited use of the lovely home Hardwell occupied near Bath, England, in a town called Peasedown St. John. The home comes with five acres, so these millionaire dogs have plenty of room to run.
6. Jasper and Jason: These dogs live in luxury, since the death of their owner. Jasper is a Labrador and Doberman mix. He was destined for euthanization after being abandoned. However, Diana Myburgh, a brewery heiress, rescued him. Jason is a Whippet. They were both given trust funds of $50,000. As you might imagine, now their funds have more than tripled. It may not be $1 million, but it’s still a hefty fund. Besides, they own a 1,236 acre estate that is worth waaaaaay more than $1 million, and enjoy the finest steaks prepared by a personal chef and ride around in a stretch limo.
7. Tobey Rimes: A reclusive poodle who is worth $92 million. Tobey descends from a poodle who inherited $30 million from his New York owner, Ella Wendel, who died in 1931. Now Tobey is the poster dog for the benefits of trust funds and compounding interest. He makes #3 the list of richest pets ever, behind Gunther IV and a chimp named Kalu.

Some of the World’s Richest Cats

Cats already think that they are royalty. This list of cats rich enough to live like royalty is likely only to increase this feeling of pet entitlement.

1. Tinker: This is the classic rags-to-riches story. Tinker was a stray, regularly visiting Margaret Layne, an old widow. In return for Tinker’s loyalty, he was awarded a fortune. There is a $226,000 trust fund for Tinker, as well as a new home — worth about $800,000. Tinker has been joined by two lovely female cats, Lucky and Stardust. Of course, if Tinker returns to his wandering ways, the will strips him of his money.
2. Beryl Reid’s Cats: Beryl Reid was an actress. She had a lovely $1.8 million cottage. She was also famous for her love of cats. So, when she died, her cats Hamish, Boon, Eileen, Coco and Tuffnel inherited. A friend was commissioned to look after them as they lived in their house.
3. Lola, The Millionaire Cat: This cat isn’t a millionaire — yet. While the other cats on this list inherited their wealth, The Millionaire cat is trying to earn money through blogging. The Millionaire Cat has a blog that shows videos of this entrepreneur doing every day cat things. The Millionaire Cat is taking donations via PayPal, and hoping for enough money to become a millionaire. It’s an interesting concept, but, unfortunately, this cat hasn’t got a cent yet.
4. Red: A tabby cat who kept bachelor David Harper company. When Harper died, he left is $1.1 million estate to Red. The cat is cared for the United Church of Canada, and will enjoy the benefits of the best food, bedding and medical care for the rest of his life.
5. Blackie: When British recluse Ben Rea died, he left $15 million to various cat charities — and to his cat Blackie. Rea left nothing to his relatives, however. Everything went to Blackie and to help cat charities. We don’t have a picture of Blackie, who seems to be as reclusive as his owner, but here is a picture of a black cat enjoying life.
6. Fluffy: Mary Burton was a church organist in Great Paxton, Cambridgeshire, Enlgand. She left her entire estate to the Wood Green Animal Shelter, provided her cat — a ginger tom — was well cared for. Fluffy, the ginger tom, received $60,000, plus the ability to live in the house and be well cared for. His diet was even specified: steamed cod, lean roast beef, milk, frexh pilchards and vegetables. Fluffy also requires plenty of sun and relaxation. He’s probably not worth quite $1 million, but Fluffy lies better than a lot of humans. This is what Fluffy likely looks like (we couldn’t find a picture) — a regular ginger tom.
7. Brownie and Hellcat: These felines each received $415,000 in the 1960s when their owner, Dr. William Grier, died. Charlie Chan, another cat beneficiary of Grier, received $250,000. The legacies of Brownie and Hellcat live on, even though they are dead; each legacy is now worth $4.1 million. Not bad. I don’t know what Brownie and Hellcat looked like, but the cat pictured here is definitely living the high life.

16 of the World’s Most Sought After Exotic Pets

Some people are content to own regular pets such as cats, dogs, birds, and gerbils while others prefer the more exotic, such as chinchillas, sugar gliders, monkeys, pythons etc., wanting the status of having owned an exotic animal.

It is the owner’s choice if they want to take on the many responsibilities that are involved in taking care of an exotic animal. And for those who seek the exotic, unusual and lavish, these pets can help fulfill that desire while adding to one’s status symbol.

There are many exotic pets that are legal to purchase [some even require special licensing] under the correct circumstances, ranging in price from approximately $800 to $138,000.

Most of them are available whether you are rich or poor, however all of these pets demand high attention and lots of time.

Bengal Cat

No relation to the Bengal tiger, the Bengal cat is a hybrid creation featuring pre-designed genetic characteristics that are crossbred with the likes of something more exotic, such as the Asian leopard cat.

The Bengal cat is a fun loving, always on the go cat that you won’t find resting very often.

The result is a new feline breed that acts much like a mellow domestic, but looks like he just walked off the Savannah plains.

Savannah Cat

Bred in a similar process to the Bengal Cat, the Savannah Cat is bred by mating the African Serval with a smaller domestic cat.

The Savannah inherently has a much more difficult breeding process, because an African Serval is 40lbs and undomesticated and breeding it with a domestic house cat is problematic.

Concurrently, the gestation periods between the two animals are different.

Chinese Crested Hairless Puppies

These chinese crested hairless puppies weigh about 5 to 12 lbs and are very vivacious, alert and friendly animals. Considered to be one of the rarest dogs, these dogs are prone to sunburning on a hot and clear day.

The dogs first originated in Africa and the animals is most often found to be a very pleasant companion that lives for over 10 to 12 years.

Hyacinth Macaw

The hyacinth macaw weighs in at four pounds, and the world’s largest parrot species also enjoys a tremendous four-foot wingspan.This South American native mates for life, is easily domesticated and will probably outlive you. In the wild, he eats the nuts from two kinds of palm trees, but one of them, the acuri, he only eats after it has passed through the digestive system of another animal.

Kinkajou

This nocturnal rain forest mammal is friendly and affectionate by nature and, therefore, enjoys some popularity among exotic-pet owners.

Despite their sharp, carnivorous teeth they eat bananas, eggs, mangoes, fruit loops, marshmallows, and gummi bears. This preserves their wicked, bacteria-loaded bite for when threatened or scared.

Sugar Glider

These popular little nocturnal marsupials from northeast Australia weigh no more than about five ounces.

Their lively and curious nature helps them to bond easily with humans. Unfortunately, they’re also social and nocturnal, and want your attention when you can’t give it - at night.

For that reason, it is recommended that you keep at least two.Owners should also provide an environment with branches or vines to satisfy the sugar glider’s desire to climb.

Snow Macaque

The Japanese Macaque, also known as the Snow Monkey, is a terrestrial Old World monkey species native to Japan.

The Snow Macaque is considered a threatened species as we continue to encroach on more and more of the animal’s habitat. Due to this fact, coveted licenses and special permits are mandated to own this very rare animal.

The Snow Macaque is a smaller primate with a lifespan of over 25 years with the distinguishing feature of a hairless red face.

Squirrel monkey

Hailing from Central and South America, the squirrel monkey is omnivorous, measuring in at about 2.75 pounds; they have a number of predators, which is one reason they run with a posse that can number as high as 500.

Speaking proportionately, they have the largest brain of all the primates (that includes humans). Couple that intelligence with a social and affectionate nature, and things like house-training come relatively easy to this monkey.

Mona monkey

This West African native is an Old World monkey who peaks out at about 15 pounds and lives into his early 20s.

Like any other monkey, this mona monkey also needs to move those crazy limbs. Owners should provide them with an enclosure that permits climbing, swinging, goofing around, and even hiding.

The most difficult job may be monkey-proofing your home, since he can outsmart or out-jiggle most baby-proof methods.

Chimpanzee

Eerily analogous to humans in life span, behavior and even DNA (we share 94%), chimps have a hold on human fascination and attract the likes of scientists, zoo-goers and potential pet owners.

This remarkable similarity also hints toward why they make for such problematic and unmanageable pets. Chimpanzee can be house-trained, but he’s intelligent enough to have a mind of his own. If he wants to raid the fridge, but fails to outwit you, his 115-pound frame has another option- take it by force.

His average upper-body strength is five times that of a human. With a more sophisticated gripping capacity he could show you up at the gym, but why bother? He can just maul you to death.

Chinchilla Lanigera

Chinchilla’s lifespan is typically about 15 years, but 18-22 years is not uncommon. Its Body length is about 10-14 inches; tail is another 5-6 inches or so.

With gentle handling from a young age most chinchillas will become quite tame and bond closely with their owners, although sometimes they do not like to be held or cuddled.

They are very active and playful. Chinchillas can be kept singly, and usually will do fine as same sex pairs especially if they are littermates or introduced at a young age.

White Lion Cubs

According to Forbes (America’s Priciest Pets), as a pet this cub is the world’s costliest animal. The white lion is not a species unto itself; he’s your standard lion with a potentially fatal flaw. The flaw is a recessive gene that alerts both potential prey (wildebeests, hippos and adult elephants) as well as predators (hunters) to his presence.

The problem with raising a cub is the same as raising some puppies — they grow up. In the case of a white lion, that can mean reaching 500 pounds.

Ball Python

There are two types of people: those who like snakes as pets and those who don’t.

It’s doubtful that the red eyes or exotic colors of some of these rare variations will entice the uninterested.

After all, ownership in this case means keeping your 5-foot-long ball python in a 30 gallon tank and feeding it dead mice, rats or gerbils every 10 days for the next 30 years.

Reticulated Python

Hailing largely from Thailand and Indonesia, reticulated pythons represent the longest known species of snake in the animal kingdom.

How do you keep this monster happy? Start with a fairly large tank for a habitat in which humidity levels and high temperatures must be regulated with some discipline.

Breeders recommend getting a second person to help you feed your reticulated albino type II tiger python ; someone needs to call an ambulance when it mistakes you for a carcass.

Lavender Albino Python Female

This Albino is very different from the more common form of albinism. The white areas have a nice lavender color and the eyes are a very deep, ruby red. The trait is a simple recessive and is represented in captivity at this time.

Also available from python breeder Bob Clark, the rarity has fueled demand.

Leopard Gecko

Leopard geckos may live about 20 years. Leopard geckos reach approximately 8-10 inches in length.

Leopard geckos are commonly yellow and white with black spots (hatchlings start out more striped, and gradually change to the spotted appearance). There are several color and pattern (e.g. jungle) variations.