Sloths as Pets
Curious About Sloths as Pets? Start Here!
Thinking about owning a sloth or just fascinated by these slow-moving cuties? You’re in the right place! This guide covers the most common questions about sloth ownership — from legality and cost to care, behavior, and more. Whether you're a sloth lover, a curious researcher, or someone dreaming of rainforest roommates, these answers will help you understand what it really means to care for a sloth (and why it’s usually best to admire them from afar).
Legality & Ownership
Are sloths legal pets in the U.S. or Canada?
In most areas, sloths are considered protected wildlife. A few U.S. states like Texas and Florida may issue exotic animal permits, but many others—such as California and Michigan—prohibit sloth ownership entirely. In Canada and the U.K., sloths are generally not legal to keep as pets. Always check with your local wildlife authority before considering exotic pet ownership.
Why are sloths banned as pets in most places?
Sloths have highly specific needs—such as rainforest-level humidity, consistent temperatures, and a tree-filled environment. Removing them from their native habitat causes stress, health problems, and often shortens their lives. These bans help protect sloths and discourage wildlife trafficking.
General Pet Suitability
Do sloths make good house pets?
No. Sloths are solitary, slow-moving animals that thrive in treetops—not in living rooms. They are not suited to domestic life, and most homes can’t meet their physical or behavioral needs.
Why do sloths suffer in captivity?
Sloths have extremely slow metabolisms and fragile digestive systems. Even small changes in diet or temperature can make them seriously ill. Captive environments rarely provide the conditions they need to stay healthy.
Personal Ownership Questions
Can sloths be safely handled by humans?
Sloths are not social animals and don’t enjoy being held or petted. Physical contact can cause stress and weaken their immune systems. They’re best observed quietly, from a respectful distance.
Can I take care of a sloth if I really want to?
Even with the best intentions, sloth care is extremely difficult. They need a controlled rainforest-like habitat, round-the-clock access to exotic animal veterinarians, and specially sourced food. Most individuals simply cannot provide what a sloth truly needs.
Cost & Availability
How much does a pet sloth cost?
Buying a sloth can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000—but that’s just the beginning. Proper care—including climate control, vet care, and special diets—can cost thousands more each year. Many sloths sold online are trafficked or unhealthy.
Is it ethical to buy a sloth if it's affordable?
No. Lower prices usually signal illegal or unethical sourcing. Buying sloths fuels wildlife trafficking and puts more wild animals at risk. If you care about sloths, the best way to help is by supporting rescue centers and sanctuaries.
Where to Find / Interact with Sloths
Where can I see a sloth up close—ethically?
Support accredited zoos, sanctuaries, and rescue centers that prioritize animal welfare. Look for facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) or the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS), and avoid any business that offers selfies, petting, or "sloth encounter" experiences that stress the animals.
Can I volunteer to help sloths?
Yes! Many reputable sanctuaries offer volunteer opportunities where you can help with habitat care, education, or fundraising. Check out organizations like The Sloth Institute or The Sloth Conservation Foundation to get involved.
Behavior & Environmental Fit
What are sloths like in the wild?
Sloths live high in rainforest trees, moving slowly to conserve energy and avoid predators. They sleep 15–20 hours a day, eat a diet of specific leaves, and are rarely active.
Can I recreate that environment at home?
It’s extremely difficult. Sloths need filtered light, high humidity, specific temperatures, and tall spaces for climbing—all of which are hard to provide without professional-grade equipment and expert support.
Conservation & Education
How does the exotic pet trade affect sloths?
Wild sloths are often taken from their habitats illegally, especially babies who are captured after their mothers are killed. This not only harms individual animals, but also damages entire ecosystems and conservation efforts.
How can I help protect sloths?
Support rainforest preservation, donate to ethical sloth sanctuaries, or symbolically adopt a sloth through a reputable rescue. Great places to start include The Sloth Conservation Foundation and The Sloth Institute. Educate others about why sloths don’t belong in homes—and why they do belong in the wild.
Care & Feeding
What do sloths eat in the wild?
Wild sloths eat a slow-fermenting diet of specific tree leaves, with the occasional flower or fruit depending on the species. Their digestion is extremely sensitive, and they require a diet that’s impossible to replicate with store-bought food.
How are sloths cared for in sanctuaries?
Sanctuaries provide carefully regulated rainforest-like habitats with professional veterinary oversight. They source appropriate leaves, maintain humidity and temperature controls, and monitor the animals' health daily.
❤️ Love sloths? The best way to show it is by protecting them.
Support conservation efforts, volunteer at rescue centers, and help spread the word about keeping sloths wild. They belong in the rainforest—not in our living rooms.
Ready for more sloths?
Check out the Sloth Education page to keep learning, or visit our shop for fun sloth merch and gifts!