A skunk is a small black and white animal that uses a stinky spray to protect itself when threatened. They are quite common in cities and suburbs. Skunks are similar in size to cats and have fluffy tails with stripes. While they are usually black and white, some may be gray or brown.
Skunks can make excellent pets if you have the right family setup. They need great care and attention, but it’s simple enough. The toughest part might be keeping them from causing trouble, but they will bring you joy and affection for years.
I was surprised to learn that skunks have gained popularity as pets among exotic pet lovers and even regular families. They are seen as unique companions. But is it a good idea to have a pet skunk in your home?
Smelly or Smelless of Skunk
Wild skunks have a strong odor. Pet skunks have been de-scented for years. While this process is simple, some people question if it is kind.
What do Skunk eat?
A captive skunk’s diet consists of about 60-70% protein, which includes eggs, chicken, fish, cheese, and raw nuts. Feeder insects are also good for them, while vegetables complete their diet. They should avoid sweets, onions, asparagus, chocolate, processed meats, bacon, and fried foods. In the wild, their diet is quite different. They enjoy eating mice, moles, voles, rats, birds, their eggs, and carcasses. They also consume grasshoppers, wasps, bees, crickets, beetles, and beetle larvae.
Rabies
Skunks and some other mammals can get rabies if an infected animal bites them or if they eat the body of one. While it is uncommon for pet skunks to have rabies, there have been instances where a healthy pet skunk bit someone and was put down by animal control to test its brain for the virus.
Temperament
Skunks are intelligent and sensitive animals, and their temperaments can vary like all smart creatures. Typically, skunks are playful. They are very curious and will explore unlocked cupboards. Some owners have observed their skunks sniffing at old spills on the carpet and trying to dig to discover what’s buried there.
Organizations
Pet skunk organizations provide valuable advice for skunk owners. Some of them organize annual skunk shows where prizes are given for categories like Prettiest Tail and Most Talented. The American Domestic Skunk Association offers education, 24-hour support, adoptions, rescue, and events, along with newsletters and care guides. Owners of Pet Skunks is a non-profit that aims to improve the lives of skunks in captivity.
What You Can Expect From a Pet Skunk?
Keep in mind that domesticated skunks are very different from wild ones. Taking a wild skunk from its natural environment to keep as a pet can cause issues for both you and the skunk. Wild skunks can be aggressive and are not good house pets. However, skunks raised in captivity are often calm and friendly, much like cats. After playing with one for a while, you’ll understand why they are becoming popular pets. They are social and love to cuddle, but training them requires patience, especially to prevent them from scratching furniture.
Conclusion
Pet skunks can live indoors with people, much like cats and dogs, but they are still quite rare. This is mainly due to strict laws and the challenges of their diet and care. In some areas of the U.S., you can adopt skunks from licensed shelters, educational groups like the American Domestic Skunk Association, or certified breeders. Baby skunks are most available in spring after mating season. Skunks are famous for their ability to spray a smelly liquid from their glands to defend themselves.
Wild skunks usually spray only as a last resort when threatened; they often try to scare off predators by puffing up and making noise before running away. If a pet skunk is let out of the house or escapes, it may be in grave danger. Skunks can travel several miles a day, and unless found, a lost pet skunk is in trouble. Unlike cats and dogs, domesticated skunks lack homing instincts to find their way back. In addition, only skunks born in the wild learn the skills necessary to forage and hunt.