Raccoon

Procyon cancrivorus

Raccoons as pets

Raccoons can be kept legally as pets in some states of the United States. Raccoons bred by breeders or orphan raccoons raised by humans may make suitable pets; however, raccoons are not domesticated animals. Training a raccoon is an intensive and ongoing process, and the raccoon may still have behavorial problems like biting and destructive and messy play. Raccoons are nocturnal but most adapt to sleeping during the night and being awake in the day with training.

Related Topics:
Pet - United States - Domesticated animals - Nocturnal

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Raccoons may carry rabies and Baylisascaris roundworm. Captive raccoons may develop obesity and other disorders because of unnatural diet and lack of exercise; furthermore, many veterinarians will not treat raccoons. Raccoons raised in captivity and released often do not adapt to life outside.

Related Topics:
Rabies - ''Baylisascaris'' roundworm - Obesity - Veterinarian

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See also 20 reasons not to have a pet raccoon

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