Buzz
Having a pet fox can be a unique and rewarding experience. Unlike wild foxes, domesticated ones are bred for a friendlier disposition, often likened to oversized kittens! However, because foxes aren't your typical pets, it's crucial to ensure they're legal in your area and that your home is properly prepared for these exotic companions. Since foxes aren't naturally suited to domestic life like cats and dogs, it's essential to anticipate and address any challenges that may arise when integrating what essentially remains a wild animal into your household.
Key Steps
Setting Up an Outdoor Haven for Your Fox
Constructing a Secure Enclosure. Outdoor housing is a must for pet foxes to prevent them from wandering off to forage or explore. Opt for an area spanning at least 100 square feet and enclose it with sturdy wire fencing.
- Seek out a sheltered location shielded from strong winds and direct sunlight.
- Select an area with solid ground, avoiding damp or marshy terrain.
Ensure the Fence Extends Deep Into the Ground. To prevent foxes from burrowing underneath, dig a trench about 3 feet deep and embed the fence securely into the soil.
- Consider laying a concrete foundation for added security, although be mindful of its impact on the fox's paws. Covering the concrete with dirt or mulch can mitigate this.
- An alternative is to bury chain-link fencing beneath the surface, effectively thwarting any escape attempts by digging foxes.
Erect a Roof for the Enclosure. To prevent foxes from scaling the fence, ensure the enclosure is adequately covered.
Provide Shelter with a Dog House. A spacious dog house can serve as a cozy retreat for your fox. Furnish it with blankets, straw, or other warm bedding materials.
Offer Enrichment with Toys. Foxes are energetic creatures that thrive on stimulation. Experiment with various toys to discover your fox's favorites, which may include:
- Canine tunnels
- Balls
- Chew toys for dogs or cats
- Fabric playthings
- Even natural sticks can provide entertainment!
Provide Food and Water Bowls. Opt for sturdy, heavyweight bowls to prevent your fox from tipping them over during play. Like dogs, foxes may find this amusing!
Provide Shelter from the Sun. Ensure your fox has access to shade by securing a tarp over the cage or incorporating a covered area into the enclosure.
Preparing for Fox Ownership Indoors
Secure Your Home for a Fox. Foxes can be mischievous, so take precautions similar to those you would for a new puppy or kitten. Consider covering electrical cords, tidying up, and minimizing potential hiding spots, such as behind furniture.
- While some foxes can adapt to indoor living, remember that they are ultimately wild animals, which may pose challenges.
- Even indoor foxes require outdoor space for exercise and play. It's advisable to provide a supervised outdoor enclosure for times when you're away from home.
Introduce a Litter Box. Foxes can be trained to use a litter box, akin to cats.
- A covered litter box is recommended, considering foxes' penchant for digging.
- Any size litter box designed for cats should suffice.
- Keep in mind that not all foxes can be successfully trained to use a litter box, as they remain wild animals. Factor this into your decision to adopt a fox as a pet.
Set Up Food and Water Dishes. Opt for sturdy bowls to prevent your fox from overturning them during mealtime.
Provide Entertainment with Toys. Invest in some toys to keep your fox entertained indoors.
- Even if your fox already has outdoor toys, consider additional ones for indoor use to prevent bringing dirty toys inside.
Select a Cozy Bed. Choose a comfortable pet bed for your fox. While some may enjoy sleeping in your bed, others prefer their own space, much like cats.
Invest in a Grooming Brush. Foxes undergo heavy shedding during summer, necessitating regular brushing.
Caring for Your Pet Fox
Research Local Regulations. Before getting a pet fox, familiarize yourself with local laws, as they may be illegal in many areas. In places where they're allowed, obtaining a license is often necessary due to their exotic pet status.
- Check both state and local laws, as regulations may vary. Even if your state permits pet foxes, your city might not.
- For state-specific information, visit this website.
Locate a Veterinarian. Find a local vet willing to treat foxes. It's essential for your fox's health, as they require vaccinations, spaying/neutering, regular check-ups, and occasional medical treatments, just like other pets.
- Not all vets handle exotic animals, so choose one who does.
- Secure a vet before acquiring your fox, as finding one later can be challenging.
- Regular annual check-ups are recommended.
- Maintain detailed medical records for your fox in case of emergencies.
Consider Existing Pets. If you have smaller pets, reconsider getting a fox, as they may prey on smaller animals like birds or rodents.
- Never leave your fox unsupervised with other pets.
Provide Proper Nutrition. Foxes are omnivores, so offer high-quality medium-sized dog food and seek advice from a vet regarding other dietary options.
- Supplement their diet with meats and vegetables as recommended by your vet.
- Ensure access to dry dog food throughout the day and consider adding wet cat food mixed with vegetables to their diet once daily.
Choose Foods Wisely. Collaborate with your vet to compile a list of foods harmful to foxes. Avoid feeding them anything toxic to cats or dogs, such as:
- Avocados
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Green eggplants
- Peppers
- Tomatoes
- Green potatoes
- Macadamia and Walnuts
- Pits and seeds from apples, cherries, and peaches
- Xylitol
Secure Your Fox. Always leash or fence your fox when outdoors to prevent them from harming other animals. Provide them with a collar and tags to distinguish them from wild foxes if they escape.
Ensure Adequate Exercise. Foxes have high energy levels, so they require plenty of physical activity. Aim for one to two hours of exercise daily to keep your pet stimulated.
Opt for a Pet Harness. When walking your fox, always use a harness instead of a collar. While the collar is for identification, attaching a leash to it can potentially choke the fox.
Maintain Dental Health. Like dogs and cats, foxes are prone to tooth decay, making regular brushing essential. Depending on your fox's diet, brushing every week or every three days should suffice.
Useful Tips
Important Warnings
- Illegally owning a fox can result in fines, arrest, or even the fox's life being at risk.
- Ensure you keep all USDA and vaccination documents securely stored.
