Does Petco Sell Axolotls In 2024? Alternatives!

Buying a pet has always been hectic, and taking care of them is even more challenging. If you’re a new pet mom/dad, you are in for a lot of trouble.

However, it would be a crime to generalize that all pets are hard to maintain as some are relatively easier.

Today we will look into the world of a very intricately kept pet: Axolotl.

Axolotls are amphibians and a distant cousin of the slimy salamander. But, they are a cuter and domesticated version of them.

But Does Petco sell Axolotls? Let’s find out in the article below.

Does Petco Sell Axolotls?

No, Petco does not sell axolotls in its stores and website.

That’s because they are an unviable business commodity due to their high maintenance and caretaking requirements.

In addition, the jurisdiction state laws have also prohibited the trade of these creatures. Therefore, in 2023, Petco officially removed axolotls from its website and stores.

However, if you are lucky, you might find axolotls in some Petco stores.

Where Can You Get Axolotls?

You can get axolotls in a state where their trade is still permitted. But even after that, you will have to fight tooth and nail to grab these rare pets.

If you are really desperate for an axolotl, you may even look at Amphibian Expos.

You can ask your vet to look for you, or you can also find axolotls owners online willing to give them up. Online unwanted axolotls are pretty common these days.

So, if you are dedicated, you may end up on a Facebook group or a page on Craigslist where someone no longer wants them and is ready to sell.

Other than that, you can also look at local pet stores or pet sanctuaries.

Why is Petco Not Selling Axolotls?

Petco does not sell axolotls because their selling is labeled illegal in certain states of the USA.

This is because axolotls are pretty rare in the population and are considered endangered by the authorities.

They are illegal to trade in Maine, New Jersey & California as they are endangered in these regions. You might even end up paying a sumptuous fine or months behind bars.

Other than legal restrictions, axolotls are extravagant creatures requiring much attention and caretaking. Therefore, to lower expenses, Petco removed these creatures from its inventory.

How Much Does an Axolotl Cost Normally?

There is no fixed price for axolotls, as different species cost differently.  Like any other animal, axolotls are rich in species. Some are more sought after than others.

Therefore, there is a huge range of axolotls that are both expensive and cheap. Even though it is hard to set a price, you may own an axolotl under $100. Some are even as low as $30.

But that’s not all. You will have to spend a hefty amount on their maintenance too. For example, you will need an extra $150 to spend on the tank to keep them in.

Decorating the tank to make it look like an aquarium is an expense for another day.

On the brighter side, feeding these amphibians is relatively cheaper. Their feed will generally cost between $6 and $45.

Can You Buy Axolotls As a Pet?

Yes, axolotls make great pets, as they are amazing creatures to domesticate. Axolotls are great in terms of being interactive compared to other aquarium-ridden creatures.

Moreover, you can also expose them to land due to their amphibious nature. If you learn extensively about keeping them as pets, axolotls are less challenging to manage.

Initially, their habitat requires a little more investment. But if you are someone with an eye for these extravagant creatures, this would be nothing for you.

Their food is also readily available at pet stores, but the real challenge is to acquire them!

Do Axolotls Bite?

Yes, axolotls bite, as there have been many cases of them biting humans.

They are carnivorous creatures who sometimes prefer to devour worms and fish eggs. However, they could mistake one’s finger for a worm.

But you do not need to worry, as most species have tiny, blunt teeth.

These tiny teeth often fail to penetrate your skin, and you will not even feel something bit you.

Why Are Axolotls Not Good Pets?

The caretaking involved with these creatures discourages many amphibian enthusiasts from keeping axolotls as pets.

Firstly, they are endangered species and hence not meant to be kept as pets. But, even if you are willing to keep them, maintaining their habitat is incredibly difficult. It can be even more challenging if you are on a budget.

You need to maintain a 68^oF temperature so their immune system does not suppress. Moreover, they produce a lot of waste, so you need a specialized filter to keep their tank clean. They also require ambient and dim lights to have the best vision.

What Supplies Does Petco Sell for Axolotls?

Petco will cater to every need of your axolotls online and in-store. The supplies are needed in the Amphibian Care Section on the Petco website and in stores.

The store has a 20-gallon tank, a water thermostat, a water test kit, and a filter to keep the water clean. You can also get other friendly creatures from Petco to make their tank life enjoyable.

You can also find an air pump from the store to keep the tank water oxygenated. Not only this, but there are heaters and water conditioners too.

You can also buy live plants which are not toxic. Different types of nets also pull them out of the large tank. Not to mention, the food for axolotls is also available at Petco.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, axolotls are amazing yet intricate pets. Thus, they are a great addition to your aquarium only if you are up for the job.

However, you cannot buy them from Petco as their sale is banned in most regions.

But there are many other ways to acquire them. For example, you can buy axolotls online or from the states where they are not prohibited.

On the brighter side, you can buy all the supplies needed to provide a healthy environment to axolotls from Petco.