A popular video game called Minecraft is leading to a new pet fad, with kids now nagging parents to get them an axolotl.

Apparently, you can spawn these creatures on the game, which depicts them as being quite cute.

But an axolotl is a real endangered creature, and quite a needy one at that.

Helen Beattie is New Zealand's chief veterinary officer and she told Tim Dower parents must think carefully about what they're signing up for.

“It’s like any animal you intend to be part of your family, w need to be able to make sure we can give them a good life. They’re an unusual animal with unusual needs.”

LISTEN ABOVE