When I first saw an Axolotl on a TikTok trend in late 2024, I was mesmerized. It looked like a real-life Pokémon—smiling, pink, and completely alien. By 2026, these “walking fish” have become the ultimate pet for apartment dwellers in the U.S.
I decided to adopt my first Axolotl, whom I named “Toothless,” about 12 months ago. While they are fascinating, they are not your typical goldfish. If you’re thinking about joining the Axolotl craze, here is my honest, hands-on experience with the steep learning curve of exotic pet care.
1. It’s All About the Water (The Hard Way)
The biggest mistake I made at first was thinking a clean-looking tank was a healthy tank. Axolotls are incredibly sensitive to water chemistry.
My Experience: I spent the first month testing ammonia levels daily. I found that unlike fish, Axolotls produce a lot of waste. You need a robust filtration system, but—and here’s the kicker—it can’t create a strong current. They hate fast-moving water; it stresses them out until their gills curl.
2. The Temperature Struggle
In most American homes, we keep the thermostat at 72°F. This is too hot for an Axolotl. I found that Toothless became lethargic when the water hit 70°F. They need cold water (60-68°F).
My Solution: I had to invest in an aquarium chiller. It was an unexpected expense ($200), but it’s the difference between a thriving pet and a sick one.
3. Comparing Axolotls to Other Popular “Exotic” Pets
Before you buy, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Here is how I’d rank the Axolotl against other common exotic pets I’ve seen:
Exotic Pet Comparison Table (2026 Standards)
| Feature | Axolotl | Bearded Dragon | Leopard Gecko | My Verdict |
| Cool Factor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Axolotl Wins: Nothing looks like them. |
| Ease of Care | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Gecko Wins: Axolotls need perfect water. |
| Initial Cost | $300 – $500 | $200 – $400 | $150 – $300 | Expensive: The chiller and tank setup add up. |
| Interactivity | Low | High | Medium | Dragon Wins: You can’t “pet” an Axolotl. |
4. The Diet: Not for the Squeamish
I thought I’d be feeding Toothless dry pellets. I was wrong. To keep him healthy and that vibrant pink color, I had to switch to live nightcrawlers (earthworms).
Pro Tip: I found that cutting the worms in half makes it easier for them to eat, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re squeamish about bugs or worms, this isn’t the pet for you.
5. Final Verdict: Is an Axolotl Right for You?
After a year, I can say that having an Axolotl is like having a living piece of art in your room. They are quiet, beautiful, and endlessly interesting to watch. However, they are “look but don’t touch” pets. Their skin is permeable and sensitive, so handling them is a no-go.
If you have the patience for water chemistry and a budget for a chiller, they are the most rewarding conversation starter you can own in 2026.
