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3. Pampered Pigs and Pet Tigers: Man's new best friend doesn't necessarily walk on four legs. He might slither.

Exotic animals remain one of the fastest-growing segments of the pet industry, with Americans purchasing everything from pythons and miniature donkeys to tarantulas and giant African roaches.

And, of course, Americans insist on babying their pets, no matter what they are.

If you need hoof moisturizer for your pot-bellied pig, a cashmere sweater for your ferret, or a leather leash fitted to take your bearded dragon for a walk, all these items are available from online pet suppliers.

If you want to feel like a mommy kangaroo or possum, you can even purchase a "bonding pouch" that allows you to carry your pet marsupial around just like his biological mother would.

The danger of exotic animals came into national focus after Las Vegas entertainer Roy Horn of Siegfried & Roy in October was mauled by one of his legendary white tigers.

Only a few weeks before, New York City police had to evict a 425-pound tiger and a 5-foot-long alligator from a Bronx apartment after resident Antoine Yates was hospitalized with animal bites.

While lethal, a tiger's bite could be no worse than having to change its litter box — especially when the alligator starts to complain. [Next: Extraterrestrial Lobbyists]