Five reasons reptiles make the coolest pets

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Cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs aren't the only pets, y'know. Thanks to pop culture, science fiction and conspiracy theories, reptiles get a bad reputation. But these highly evolved creatures - from geckos and lizards to tortoises and turtles - can actually make great little companions. These are just a few of the reasons not to rule reptiles out as your possible pet - though check your local laws as not all reptiles (eg snakes in New Zealand) can be lawfully kept as pets.

They're relatively easy to look after
If they're tank-bound, or if you carve out a nice habitat for them in your home, reptiles can be pretty well contained - depending on the species. Many reptiles only need feeding a few times a month, they don't need walks or grooming, and they don't mind at all if they're left at home alone all day.

You won't have to worry about fur, or fleas...
No disrespect to our furry friends but reptiles are pretty great for potential pet owners with an aversion (or full-blown allergy) to fur or dust mites.

...or bad smells
As long as cages are cleaned regularly, reptile owners don't have to worry about the bad smells many cat, dog and rabbit owners are well acquainted with.

They're strangely affectionate
Just because they're not typically cute or furry doesn't mean reptiles don't have personalities. The truth is, reptiles can show their affection in unexpected ways - you might find a little face poking out of a tank or they may wrap their tail around you to feel secure.

They (mostly) live long lives
Reptiles certainly beat hamsters and fish in this department - typically, they live long lives. This means, however, that potential reptile pet owners need to be prepared to look after them for an extended period of time. Just like all pets, they deserve to be cared for and loved like a member of the family.