Skunks are increasing in popularity in the United States and Canada. Due to their reputation of being foul-smelling animals, most people don’t understand the draw to skunks. But those brave enough to adopt one of these animals is always impressed by how loving and intelligent they are.
To clear this up, pet skunks’ ability to spray is removed so there is no worry about the horrible smell from their spray.
The average adult skunk is in between 15 and 37 inches in length and weighing in between 1 and 18 pounds. Skunks usually have black fur with a single thick white stripe across the back and tail. There are variations of the stripe and skunk colors including brown and gray colors as well as two thinner white stripes.
Skunks are very intelligent animals and can usually solve problems when faced with a dilemma. They are also very curious and will crawl into dark spaces such as closed cupboards and cabinets. Like many other exotic pets, their curiosity can lead them into dangerous and unknown territory. Doors and windows cannot be left open with a skunk in the house because they will escape if given the opportunity.
Skunks desire a lot of attention and play with their owners. Skunks are very high maintenance pets. The more attention and love you give to a skunk the better pet your skunk will be.
Potty training takes time, patience and persistence. A skunk can be trained to use a litter pan or newspaper but it will take a great deal of time to train a skunk properly. As with any other pet, accidents will happen.
In the wild, skunks are omnivores. They eat plants around them as well as animal material including earthworms, rodents and frogs. They use their sharp claws to catch and devour their prey. When raising a skunk domestically, they should be fed a very healthy mixture of food including fresh fruits and vegetables along with yogurt, cottage cheese, rice and beans. A healthy vegetarian diet will do a skunk good.
Skunks prefer to live in open habitats and will not be content in a cage. This is a big commitment to make but allowing your pet skunks to roam free will ensure your pet is happy and healthy.
Owning a skunk as a pet is still illegal in many states. Check with local law enforcement offices to find out if you are legally allowed to keep a skunk with or without a permit. Find a proper breeder with the correct permits to adopt from. Skunks can suffer from a large variety of health problems. Make sure you find a veterinarian that is willing to treat your new pet. Skunks need to be spayed/neutered, have yearly vaccinations and be treated for things like roundworms.
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