It is currently legal to own domesticated skunks in only 17 states: Alabama, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
How much does a domesticated skunk cost?
A skunk can be a costly pet, especially the first year. Skunk kits cost between $150 and $500, and spay or neuter can cost up to $250. Add to that the costs for food, cage(s), litter boxes, bed(s), toys, daily diet supplements, and other costs. Verify that it is legal to own a pet skunk where you live.
How do you get a domestic skunk?
You can check your local paper or even an agriculture-based newspaper in your area. Occasionally, depending on where you live, skunks can be found in pet stores. A breeder who breeds skunks as pets is the best choice, as long as the skunks are raised under good conditions and socialized well as kits.
How long do domestic skunks live?
The average life span for a domestic skunk is 8 to 12 years or longer. If handled properly as babies, they are very affectionate pets. They can live with children if the children are responsible and old enough to know how to handle a pet properly and not leave doors open allowing the skunk to escape.
Can you potty train a skunk?
Potty Training – Begin training your young skunk to use a litter box/pan as soon as it arrives. Skunks will usually use a corner and can be easily trained. If you watch the corner(s) they want to use and place litter pans in those places, they will learn to go in the pan, not on the floor.
Do pet skunks bite?
But in general they’re quiet animals. They’re also not prone to aggression when properly socialized, but they will bite if they feel threatened. … So if your pet skunk bites a person or another animal, authorities might seize it to monitor for rabies symptoms. Some pet skunks have even been euthanized after biting.
Do male or female skunks make better pets?
When choosing a skunk as a pet, both males and females are equally able to become loving, affectionate family members. A skunk’s personality is determined by different variables, not by their gender. Some skunks have stronger personalities than others and may need more time to adjust to being a pet.
Can you buy a pet skunk?
It is currently legal to own domesticated skunks in only 17 states: Alabama, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Do Descented skunks still smell?
So if you live in Wisconsin, your skunk’s gonna stink. Skunks only spray when they feel threatened. If skunkie was raised right, has no predators, and has gentle and loving human companions, it’ll probably keep its stink to itself for the vast majority of its life.
What do you feed a pet skunk?
Fresh, cooked or thawed frozen vegetables and occasional fruits, cooked poultry like chicken, and healthy foods made with grains, such as cereal, should all be fed. Nuts, cooked grains, a few pieces of dog food, and yogurt should also be mixed into the diet.
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What states is it illegal to own a skunk?
| State | Legality |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Illegal |
| Arkansas | Illegal |
| Arizona | Illegal |
| California | Illegal |
Are skunks smarter than cats?
“Skunks are way more affectionate and way smarter than cats.”
Are skunks aggressive?
It is important to remember that most skunks are not aggressive and won’t harm humans unless they are threatened, according to The Humane Society. Skunks are nocturnal and forage for food while most animals and humans sleep. Though you typically see skunks by themselves, they gather to mate.
Do skunks like to cuddle?
Despite wild skunks being most active at dawn and dusk, pet skunks can be trained to have a sleep cycle that mirrors that of their humans. They love cuddling and are playful animals, offering hours of free entertainment for their pet parents.
Do skunks need a cage?
Skunks love to spend time outside, so it’s nice to create a space where they can do that. If you plan on letting your skunk stay out there when you are not around, you will need a secure cage. If you just want an area where your skunk can explore while you supervise, a pen will work well.
What is skunk food?
A skunk’s diet largely depends on availability. In the spring and summer, a skunk’s diet mostly consists of grasshoppers, bees, beetles, beetle larvae, and crickets. During the fall and winter, when food is scarce, skunks will scavenge for fruit, nuts, bird seed, and pet food.