Can An Opossum Be A Pet?

Having An Opossum As A Pet

There will always be people who want pets that are out of the ordinary. Whether because they are cute or because of a unique bond built, they keep these animals in their home as pets.

When choose an undomesticated animal as a pet, however, there are some things to consider, including with animals like the opossum.

There are unique traits and habits to animals that will affect the type of pet they are. You need to keep this in mind when choosing one, especially when it comes to wild animals. They are going to hold on to those traits and they may not make the best pets.



Is It Possible to Own One?

Owning one is the first step. With most regular pets, you can go ahead and get one without any troubles. Dogs, cats, and various other domesticated animals require no initial steps, outside of what the specific shelter or breeder ask. With opossums, and many similar animals, there is more to ownership. You cannot go ahead and own one outright right away. You will have to have a wildlife permit in order to have an opossum in your home.

These permits are not given to just anybody. You will have to follow certain requirements in order to get it. It is going to take time and money, and is going to come with certain expectations of you. Beyond the permit itself, there are other reasons why owning an opossum is not a good idea.

The Risks

There are risks to owning an opossum. Whether you choose to get the permit or you get the opossum without one, you will face issues in ownership.

Opossums are not domesticated animals. They are not bred for captivity and do not adapt well to it. Owning an opossum will lead to a shorter life span for it, potential health problems for the opossum, and potential problems for you if you took in a wild one.

Remember, as an undomesticated animal, the opossum will have habits of a wild animal. It will dig, it will climb, and it will cause problems. It will do everything any other wild animal would do in a private home.

Owning an opossum is possible with the right permit, but it should not happen. Opossums belong in the wild, where they can live safer and healthier lives in their natural habitats. It is best for them.


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