There are over 1 million axolotls in the care of humans worldwide. In the wild, they’re only found Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City, with less than 36 of them per square kilometer.

These unique animals can regrow limbs and resist cancer while looking adorable. Data suggests they’re the 2nd most sought-after pet next to dogs.

The more you know about these magnificent animals, the easier it will be to decide if they’re right for you. Read on to learn the pros and cons of keeping an axolotl as a pet. 

Why You Might Want to Keep an Axolotl as a Pet

Axolotls are one of the most adorable amphibians on the planet. They’re paedomorphic and keep their gills, dorsal fins, and webbed feet their entire lives. They also come in many colors, from white albinos with pink gills to dark, almost black melanoids.

It’s not expensive to buy an axolotl as a pet. They usually cost less than $100, and their food isn’t expensive, either. You can feed them worms and shrimp or fish pellets. Adults only need to eat every few days, and they can go up to 3 weeks without eating.

Their tanks are small and don’t take up much space. They can live for up to 17 years when properly cared for.

Why You Might Not Want to Keep an Axolotl as a Pet

The most important thing is to check if you’re legally allowed to have a pet axolotl. States such as California, New Jersey, Maine, and Virginia forbid it.

Their permeable skin means you can’t handle them, and they’re also nocturnal. This makes them a poor choice for families who want to cuddle their pets all day long.

Maintaining the right tank conditions is the most difficult part of caring for a pet axolotl. They may not be the right pet if you’ve never had an amphibian before.

The water needs to have a temperature of 60-70F and a pH level of 6.8-8. The chlorine and chloramines, ammonia, and nitrites should be at 0 ppm. The nitrate should be 0-10 ppm. The general hardness should be at 7-14 GH, and the carbonate hardness should be at 3-8 KH. You’ll need to check these levels and change 20-30% of the water every week.

Stress, excessive light, poor water conditions, and handling can leave your pet axolotl prone to infections and parasites. They’re not difficult to care for, but a few mistakes can make them sick. 

Be sure to view this pet axolotl shop if you’re interested in taking one of these adorable amphibians home.

More Pet Care Tips

Axolotls are one of the most unique amphibians in the world. They’re critically endangered in the wild but are also popular pets.

There are many reasons you may want to care for an axolotl. They’re adorable, feeding and caring for them is easy, and their tanks don’t take up much space.

Axolotls aren’t the best choice for your first amphibian pet because of their sensitivity to poor water conditions. They also can’t be handled, are nocturnal, and aren’t legal in every state.

Read the rest of our content for more information on finding and caring for your perfect pet.

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By SARAH