Is a cobra allowed to be a pet?

State and local laws in the United States regarding ownership of cobras and other poisonous snakes vary widely. Prospective cobra owners must check the statutes in their area prior to purchase.

Even if state and local laws permit keeping a cobra, there are other considerations. First, cobras must be acquired from a legal source, as shipping an illegally obtained wild animal across state lines is a violation of federal law. Second, arrangements to properly house and handle the cobra must be made to minimize risk to pet owners and their loved ones. Finally, cobra owners need medical and liability insurance to protect themselves in the event of an accident.