When we think of exotic pets today, we might picture rare creatures like reptiles, birds, or even big cats. The idea of keeping such animals as pets has become quite popular in recent years, but the history of exotic pet ownership dates back much further than you might imagine. In fact, the very first exotic pet may surprise you!
In this article, we will explore the fascinating origins of exotic pet ownership, focusing on what the first exotic pet was, how it was kept, and why people were drawn to these animals in ancient times.
The Beginning of Exotic Pet Ownership
The concept of exotic pets isn’t as modern as it may seem. In fact, the practice of keeping wild or non-native animals dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. Some of the first exotic pets were owned by royalty and elites, who saw them as symbols of power, prestige, and connection to nature’s wild beauty.
The First Exotic Pets in Ancient Egypt
To find one of the earliest, most iconic indications of exotic pet ownership, for instance, we need to travel all the way back to Ancient Egypt around 3000 BC.
Here, pharaohs and nobles had a special place in their hearts for both cats and dogs, so they certainly didn’t settle for them. They went bigger. Much bigger.
Lions and Leopards are some of the very first exotic pets in history. These fierce animals were regal symbols in pilgrim society. These mighty creatures were captured, somewhat tamed, and kept in the royal courts. The Egyptians regarded these big cats as harsher-than-life divine symbols. Their strength and pride made them perfect companions for rulers who sought out power and authority. You can still find traces of lions as well as leopards in Ancient Egyptian Art. They were often immortalized in ancient Egyptian art and hieroglyphs, depicting monarch alongside Baboons.
However, Egyptians kept unusual animals such as big cats. Monkeys, especially baboons, also captured the attention of the elite classes. Apart from being hailed as show Pets, Moneys had more value setting them below the frozen line of equality. They were playful creatures of great entertainment. Owning one could be seen as a crime symbol.
And then the birds vivid, striking, and downright showy came into the limelight. The colorful scarlet ibis and peacock were equally valued by Egyptians.
To learn more about the fascinating history of Egyptian pet ownership, check out Voltavibes’ article on ancient Egypt.
The First Exotic Pets in Ancient Rome: Power, Prestige, and a Whole Lot of Roar
When it came to living large, the ancient Romans didn’t do anything halfway—and that included their taste in pets. By around 200 BC, the Roman elite had developed a serious fascination with exotic animals, and they were willing to go to great lengths (and great expense) to acquire them.
Forget about cats and dogs. Wealthy Romans were importing tigers, cheetahs, elephants—even giraffes—from the farthest corners of the known world. These weren’t just animals. They were status symbols, conversation pieces, and living proof that you had influence stretching from the heart of Rome all the way to the wilds of Africa and the exotic reaches of Asia and the Middle East.
Exotic Animals on Parade and in the Arena
In Rome, exotic animals served a dual purpose: they dazzled in peaceful public displays and horrified in brutal arena battles. Triumphal parades often featured tamed wild beasts marching alongside victorious generals, a spectacle that symbolized not just military conquest but domination over nature itself. It was Rome saying, “Look what we’ve conquered—on land, in battle, and in the animal kingdom.”
Then there were the infamous gladiatorial games. Exotic creatures were brought into the Colosseum to fight one another, or to battle trained gladiators (and, disturbingly, sometimes prisoners). Lions, leopards, bears, and even crocodiles were unleashed to entertain the crowds. While not exactly “pets” in the cozy modern sense, these animals were still imported, kept in special enclosures, and represented the same obsession with rare and powerful beasts.
Augustus and His Pet Lion
Among the most intriguing stories from Roman history is that of Emperor Augustus and his pet lion. Yes, a real lion. According to historical accounts, Augustus had the creature housed in a specially built enclosure—more refined than a simple cage, and designed to keep the lion both secure and on full display.
This lion wasn’t just a cool party trick. It was a symbol of the emperor’s strength and control. Imagine visiting the palace and being greeted by the roar of a lion, a not-so-subtle reminder that Augustus ruled not just men, but nature itself. It quickly became a source of fascination among the public and a testament to the emperor’s grandeur.
More Than Pets , A Political Power Play
These exotic animals weren’t your average companions curled up by the fire. They were tools of influence. For Rome’s elite, owning a wild animal was a dramatic way of showing wealth, reach, and fearlessness. They were rare, dangerous, and expensive to transport and maintain—perfect for showcasing how far above the average citizen you were.
And while only the wealthiest could afford such indulgences, these early examples show just how far back humanity’s desire for the rare and extraordinary goes. The Romans weren’t just collecting pets. They were curating a lifestyle—and sometimes, a spectacle.
For more about exotic pets in ancient Rome, explore Voltavibes’ article on Roman culture and animals.
The First Exotic Pets in China
In China, the practice of keeping exotic animals dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). The Chinese emperors and aristocrats often kept rare and unusual animals as symbols of their wealth and status. Animals such as panthers, tigers, and pandas were kept in royal zoos or palaces. In fact, the panda is considered one of the most iconic animals associated with Chinese history and culture.
In addition to large animals, small exotic pets like silk worms and songbirds were popular in ancient China. These pets were not only kept for enjoyment but also for practical purposes such as silk production.
Why Did People Start Keeping Exotic Pets?
The reason why people began keeping exotic pets has a lot to do with status and fascination. Throughout history, exotic animals were seen as rare, powerful, and mysterious. For rulers and elites, owning these creatures demonstrated wealth, power, and a connection to the natural world that others couldn’t access.
For example, in Ancient Egypt, the lion was a symbol of strength and leadership, while the Romans used exotic animals to showcase their conquests and dominance over distant lands. Similarly, the Chinese emperors viewed these animals as a way to showcase their control over nature.
Beyond status, people were also drawn to the beauty and majesty of exotic animals. Monkeys, birds, and big cats were often admired for their grace, intelligence, and mystery, making them fascinating to observe and keep as pets.
The First Exotic Pet in Modern Times
While exotic pets have been a part of human history for millennia, the modern concept of keeping exotic animals is quite different. Today, the term “exotic pet” often refers to animals that are rare, non-native, or unusual in some way, including reptiles, amphibians, and tropical birds.
One of the first modern exotic pets to gain popularity was the iguana, which became widely kept in the 1970s in the United States. This pet, along with other reptiles like snakes and lizards, sparked a trend in exotic pet ownership that continues today.
Are Exotic Pets Still Popular Today?
Exotic pets are still very much a part of modern pet culture. People continue to seek out rare and unusual animals, from parrots and tarantulas to hedgehogs and sloths. However, the rise in popularity of exotic pets has raised concerns about the ethical implications of keeping these animals in captivity. Many exotic species are endangered, and some are not suited to life in a home environment, which has led to stricter regulations and guidelines for exotic pet ownership.
If you’re considering an exotic pet, it’s important to do thorough research and ensure that you are prepared for the unique care needs of the animal. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring any exotic pet to ensure that you are not inadvertently contributing to the decline of endangered species.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Exotic Pets
From ancient Egypt to modern-day pet owners, exotic pets have always captivated our imagination. The very first exotic pets like lions, monkeys, and birds were symbols of power and beauty in ancient cultures, while today, exotic animals continue to spark fascination and admiration. Whether they’re admired for their beauty, power, or rarity, exotic pets have always held a special place in human history.
If you’re thinking of adding an exotic pet to your family, remember that these animals require specialized care and attention. It’s essential to approach exotic pet ownership with respect and responsibility to ensure these animals thrive in their new homes.
