Can You Buy An Axolotl At Petco? Any Of Them?

Axolotls have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and if you are thinking about getting one, Petco is probably one of the first stores that comes to mind. But can you actually buy an axolotl at Petco? The answer is not as straightforward as you might expect.

Does Petco Sell Axolotls?

Some Petco locations do sell axolotls, but it is far from universal. Whether your local Petco carries axolotls depends on several factors, including your state’s laws, the store’s supplier availability, and the individual store manager’s decisions about what animals to stock. Axolotls are not a standard item that every Petco carries like goldfish or bettas.

The best way to find out is simply to call your local Petco and ask. Store inventories change frequently, and even stores that do carry axolotls may not always have them in stock. Be prepared to be put on a waiting list or to check back frequently.

Why Doesn’t Every Petco Have Axolotls?

There are a few reasons why axolotls are not available at every location. First, axolotls are illegal to own in some states. California, New Jersey, Maine, Virginia, and the District of Columbia all have laws prohibiting the private ownership of axolotls. If you live in one of these areas, no Petco (or any other store) will sell them to you.

Even in states where axolotls are legal, some local municipalities have their own restrictions. It is always a good idea to check both your state and local laws before purchasing an axolotl from anywhere.

Second, axolotls require cold water and specific care conditions that not all pet stores are equipped to maintain properly. Unlike tropical fish that thrive at room temperature or slightly above, axolotls need cool water between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping aquariums at these temperatures in a warm retail environment can be challenging.

How Much Do Axolotls Cost at Petco?

When Petco does have axolotls available, they typically cost between $30 and $60 depending on the size and morph. The most commonly available morph at chain pet stores is the wild type (dark brown/olive with speckled pattern) and leucistic (pale pink/white body with dark eyes). More exotic morphs like melanoid, GFP, or copper are usually only available through specialty breeders.

Keep in mind that the cost of the axolotl itself is just the beginning. You will also need a properly sized tank (at least 20 gallons for one axolotl), a filter, a water testing kit, a thermometer, hides, and food. The full setup cost is usually in the range of $150 to $300 beyond the cost of the animal.

Are Petco Axolotls Healthy?

The quality of axolotls at Petco can be hit or miss, just like with any chain pet store. Some locations take excellent care of their aquatic animals and have knowledgeable staff. Others may not have the expertise or resources to give axolotls the specialized care they need.

Before buying an axolotl from Petco, take a good look at the animal and its tank. A healthy axolotl should have fluffy, full gills that are bright red or pink (indicating good blood flow). Its skin should be smooth and free of white cotton like patches (which could indicate fungal infection). The axolotl should be active and responsive, not floating listlessly or lying on its side. The water in the tank should be clean and cool to the touch.

Ask the staff how long the axolotl has been at the store, what it has been eating, and what the water temperature is. If the staff cannot answer these basic questions, that tells you something about the level of care the animal is receiving.

Petco vs. Private Breeders for Axolotls

If you have the option, buying from a reputable private breeder is usually the better choice for axolotls. Breeders can provide detailed health and genetic history, offer a wider selection of morphs, and their animals are typically better cared for because the breeders specialize specifically in axolotls.

Online breeders will ship axolotls directly to your door, usually via overnight shipping during appropriate weather conditions. Websites, Facebook groups, and online forums dedicated to axolotls are great places to find reputable breeders. Expect to pay a bit more from a breeder ($40 to $100+ depending on the morph), but the quality and health guarantees are usually worth it.

That said, Petco is not a bad option if the individual store takes good care of its axolotls. Some people prefer to see the animal in person before buying, and Petco’s return policy gives you some protection if something goes wrong.

What to Have Ready Before Bringing an Axolotl Home

Whether you buy from Petco or a breeder, your tank should be fully set up and cycled before you bring your axolotl home. This is one of the most important things you can do for your new pet’s health. A cycled tank has established beneficial bacteria that process ammonia and nitrite, keeping the water safe for your axolotl.

Cycling a tank takes 4 to 6 weeks, so plan ahead. You will need a tank of at least 20 gallons, a gentle filter (axolotls do not like strong current), a thermometer, a water testing kit, hides or decorations for the axolotl to feel secure, and a substrate that is either bare bottom or fine sand (never gravel, as axolotls can swallow it and become impacted).

Axolotls are wonderful, quirky pets with tons of personality. Whether you end up finding one at Petco or through a breeder, the key is making sure you are prepared to give it the cool, clean water and proper care it needs to thrive.