Keeping the exotic pet mentally healthy.

When basic needs are not met, captive animal health and welfare will be compromised by physical and psychological stressors. These basic needs include more than just appropriate food, water, and shelter; they should include environments that provide the animal with opportunities to thrive. These opportunities to thrive can be categorized as opportunity for a well-balanced diet (including how it is provided), to self-maintain, for optimal health, to express species-specific behaviors, and for choice and control. Adequate planning and knowledge are critical to creating environments in which animals can thrive.