Axolotls are fascinating neotenic salamanders that are critically endangered in the wild but increasingly popular as pets.
Axolotl welfare as pets depends primarily on appropriate water temperature and quality, adequate space, and appropriate diet. Their sensitivity to warm water means many axolotls suffer in homes without temperature control during summer. Wild axolotl conservation requires habitat protection in Lake Xochimilco, not captive breeding of pet animals. Supporting wild habitat conservation is the most impactful welfare action for the wild population, while responsible captive husbandry protects individual pet axolotls.