Best Cuddly Pets That Are Not Cats or Dogs

We’ve all heard it: cats and dogs are the quintessential pets. But if you’re looking for something a bit more… well, cuddly, you need not limit yourself to the standard options.

There are plenty of small animals–some even stranger than cats and dogs–that make great companions and provide a lifetime of love and snuggles. In this article, we’re giving you the scoop on finding the perfect pet and what to expect from their behavior.

So keep reading for the ultimate guide to finding the best cuddly pet that’s not a cat or a dog.

Other furry friends that are adorable and cuddly

When it comes to owning a pet, cats and dogs are usually at the top of the list, but if you don’t want to go down the traditional route and find yourself attracted to a more unique species, allow us to introduce you to some of the most cuddly and also the most underrated pet!

Ferrets

First on the list, let’s talk about the adorable ferret. Not to be confused with a weasel, this small mammal looks and behaves in a similar way to a cat. They’re incredibly affectionate and like to snuggle up close to their owners. A well-socialized ferret will form strong attachments to people and can make the most perfect companion.

Rabbits

Rabbits are another pet that can make a great companion. These furry critters need plenty of room to move around and love their privacy, but when they get to know you they can make for lovely lap-sitters. They are also surprisingly clean animals and with the right training can even be taught to use a litter box.

Guinea pigs

Next, to get back to quite likely your childhood pet love…why not get yourself a guinea pig? Let’s face it, these are probably the most underrated of all small pets out there. On the other hand, guinea pigs have a handful of different advantages that should make them quite popular.

They are inquisitive animals that love to be around people and learn tricks, making them a great pick for those who want their pet to do well in social settings. Guinea Pigs require a steady diet, so their not a great pet for someone who has to be away from home for long periods of time. Still, with enough love and care, they can be a great, furry companion.

They’re lots of fun, and extremely cuddly - they’re just really incredibly social animals and can become very close to their owners.

Degus

Next we have the degu, a small rodent originating in South America that is quickly gaining popularity as a pet for Gen Z. Not only are they smaller and take up less space, but they are also incredibly active and vocal animals who need plenty of attention and exercise - which they can get from regular “degu runs” outdoors. Degu owners describe them as friendly, sweet animals, who are social and curious, easy to train and fun to be around.

Pugs

OK, let’s mix in one dog. If your idea of a pet includes big lolling tongues and a stubby body, then a pug is for you! These playful clowns of the four-legged world may not be a common sight in the urban jungle, but they are definitely one of the most cuddly of small dogs. The breed looks like a squished-up Bulldog, with a compact body and a tendency to snore.

These are just some of the best furry cuddly pets that are not cats or dogs, but there are plenty more out there that may be the perfect match for you. Whether you’re looking for an unconventional companion, or you want to give a new lease of life to an animal in need, remember that all pets need love and a little bit of extra care!

Non-furry affectionate pet friends

In recent years, Instagram has been revolutionizing everyone’s pet choices with unexpected and unique pet trends. Instead of the more traditional cats and dogs, a lot more people have been opting for exotic companions. Among the favorites are hedgehogs, crabs, chinchillas, and degus – all of which have adorable personalities and amusing habits that make them a great addition to any household.

Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs as pets have made a huge surge in popularity, as they have a playful nature and notoriously captivating personalities. The best part is that they don’t require too much attention and can be a low maintenance pet - an ideal combination for busy people these days. At the same time they adapt easily to their owners and will quickly become part of the family. In addition, they are low allergy and doesn’t need to be taken for walks.

Crabs

Yes, #gotcrabs is a pet hashtag on Instagram. So, show some love to the hermit crab. Don’t worry, getting one of these does not mean you’re committing to a crustacean for life—they are tropical animals and can be kept in tanks and/or terrariums. Hermit crabs are curious and gentle creatures that can make an exciting and lively companion.

IG @fnymariko

Turtles

Turtles are for some reason a popular celebrity choice. Could it be that they are so low maintenance? Either way, Leonardo DiCaprio practically made turtles popular in celebrity circles. He has five turtles named Gio, Stewie, Scarface, Bob, and Stinky from which he gets lots of hugs and cuddles. Other celebrities such as Ryan Seacrest and Miley Cyrus have also adopted pet turtles and showered them with love. Turtles provide low-maintenance, affectionate attention and make great cuddly companions.

Overall, for anyone who is curious about life with unconventional friendly animals, these unconventional and adorable pets offer the perfect balance of personality, energy, and gentleness for an excellent cuddly companion.

Celebrity Pets That Put the Cuddle Factor Over the Top

Hollywood stars and their pets have been in the limelight for decades. A-list celebrities are known to pamper their best furry friends with luxury and lots of cuddles. While cats and dogs are the standard go-tos, some celebs have more exotic (and cuddly) pets. The variety of different pets celebrities have is quite charming — from miniature ponies to sloths. Each one is sure to receive lots of loving attention from its celebrity pet parent. Here are some of the cuddly pets that famous people love to hug.

Hedgehogs: Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe has a hedgehog named Harvey which he loves to snuggle with. Hedgehogs are nocturnal, so they’re happy to spend most of their time sleeping and cuddling with their human parent. Stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Ryan Reynolds also have pet hedgehogs, proving how popular these animals have become in celebrity circles.

Birds: Parrots, macaws, and cockatoos are some of the more popular birds found in celebrity households. They’re extremely social and intelligent creatures, and some even learn a few words! Celine Dion loves her African Grey parrot, Zook. Even actor Will Smith adopted a parrot named Boo, whom he loves to nestle.

Sloths: Sloths are becoming increasingly popular among celebrities due to their cuddly nature. They’re slow-paced, happy, and self-sufficient, making them the ideal pet for the busy life of a superstar. Will Smith also adopted an adorable two-toed sloth from a rescue center and says it is one of the best cuddly pets he’s ever had.

Miniature Horses: Miniature horses, otherwise known as “mini-ponies,” also make the perfect cuddly companion for celebrities. Paris Hilton is a notable fan of mini-ponies and has two of her own named Marilyn and Elvis. They even ride in her car with her and get all the love and attention they could ever want.

No matter what type of pet a celebrity may have, each one is sure to get lots of cuddling and affection. Celebrity pets sure know how to live the sweet life!