Most of the people do not think about raccoon as pets but believe me, they make wonderful pets. If you are ok with his frolicsome and mischievous personality then here i will tell you how to care for one.
IS THIS THE PET FOR YOU?
First of all, decide f you really should get a raccoon as pet. They can live up to twenty years, so can you make commitment for this long to a raccoon? Plus, they need vet care, enrichment, playtime and supervision. Remember, you cannot just stuff raccoon into your closet. You will have to consider that when yo go away, who will look after your pet an in case, if you are not able to care for your pet anymore, then let me clear a thing that raccoons cannot even survive in the wild. They can also get into quite a lot of trouble and have inclination to bit to bite VERY HARD! You will have to let him live in your house or he will be just a caged wild animal which you keep in your backyard. Also make sure if they are legal in your country as they are banned in many of the countries.
2. FIND A BREEDER :-
Now, after finally deciding that you want to get a raccoon as your pet, find a good and reputable breeder in order to buy one. You can ask from state of wildlife for a list of breeders. When you go to the breeder, then try to look for a raccoon who is six to eight weeks old and who is quiet and gentle. You can also ask the breeder to let you wean him by yourself as this will create a bond between your raccoon and you.
3. HOUSING :-
Now, housing is an important part to do if you are getting a raccoon. You must try to make an outdoor pen for your pet. They need space to play and roam so make it big enough for him. Also, they love little holes in order to burrow away in and high – places. A 10×10 foot area will be good for your cute little friend in order to roam around and play. Now, when it comes to bed, he will not be picky which is a good thing for you, so you can keep a small pile of hays which will do better. If you feel like to go to the extra mile then you can buy a pet bed for your raccoon. However most probably, he may not like this type of new bed and might refuse it.
4. FEEDING :-
They like sweets, peanuts, fruits, vegetables, breads, cat and dog food. Also make sure not to overload them with lots of treat. They are very cute but it is recommended not feed him with your hands as they can bite you accidentally by mistaking your finger as food or he can also bite you on purpose by thinking that you are taking his food away from him. Do not feed him people food and red meat.
5. POTTY TRAINING :-
You can actually teach him to use litter box but you just have to work with patience. You can ”save” soiled articles from the raccoon when you are buying a raccoon. It is quite important to place a piece of feces at the new location. This will help them to used to new smell. You can also relocate that soiled item can feces to a new desired location. After this, clean the undesired location with water and bleach solution, you might have to do it for few times.
6. HEALTH :-
Your raccoon will also need veterinary care just like any other pet. Remember that, not all vets can handle exotic animals. Many vets have been not trained to deal with them and other vets lack the desire to deal with this type of pet which is going to present a challenge for them. You can research and find out which vet is the best who can check your raccoon. You should also have him immunize him against rabies by vaccinations. The vet will use a rabies vaccinations which contains no live creatures in order to protect him. This should keep from getting any rabies which might not be enough in the law’s eyes. If your raccoon will bite anyone then the laws might require you in order to surrender your raccoon for testing. Not all power in authorities admits that vaccinations are effective.
7. ENRICHMENT :-
Give your raccoon a lots of entertainment. You can give him toys like stuffed animals, bed and his own room in order to hang out in. You should play with him daily as it will create unique and strong bond between your raccoon and you. You can also give him training if you want to keep him busy and this will also prevent naughtiness. They make wonderful pets for informed and dedicated people plus they looks adorable so good luck!