It's just like with any other pet that isn't a cat or a dog - it sounds kinda weird until you see the animal being a pet "in action".

Haha I know exactly what you mean ;) I have had many unusual pets too, from giant prickly sticks to various crustaceans but I found all of them fascinating even before I had them. Unlike, well, the roaches :D I guess I have just had too many unpleasant encounters with them on my travels :D