The idea of having a fox as a pet is definitely intriguing, and there’s growing interest in owning exotic animals. However, responsible pet ownership is really important, especially when it comes to non-domesticated animals like foxes.
If you’re wondering about foxes for sale as pets, keep in mind that caring for a fox takes a lot of time, money, and specialized care. Before you get too far into the idea, let’s go over the legal, ethical, and practical considerations of owning a fox.
Understanding fox species and availability
If you’re determined to own a fox, it’s important to know the different types of foxes and where to find them.
Popular fox species for pet ownership
The foxes most often kept as pets include:
- Fennec foxes. Because they’re small and relatively docile, fennec foxes are a popular choice. They usually grow to about the size of a chihuahua and weigh less than 3 pounds as adults.
- Bat-eared foxes. These foxes are known for their unusual ears and the fact that they mainly eat insects. Male bat-eared fox kits can cost around $4000.
- Other fox species. You may also see cape foxes, red foxes, or arctic foxes for sale, but be cautious, as keeping these foxes may be illegal or raise ethical issues.
Finding foxes for sale
If you decide to buy a fox, be sure to buy from a reputable, USDA-licensed breeder who can provide health certificates and proof of vaccination.
You may see foxes advertised on online marketplaces or classifieds, but be careful, as these listings could be scams or come from unethical breeders.
Although it’s rare, you might also check with adoption and rescue organizations to see if a fox needs a home.
Legal considerations
If you’re thinking about buying a fox, you need to do your homework. Owning a fox is subject to state and local laws, and these vary widely.
Depending on where you live, you may need permits and licenses to own an “exotic” animal. Your property might be subject to inspections, too.
Moving a fox across state lines involves its own regulations and required documentation.
Finally, remember that you could be held liable for any damage or injury caused by your fox.
Housing and enrichment
If you’re determined to own a fox, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got a suitable habitat for it.
Secure enclosures
Foxes are smart and crafty escape artists, so you’ll need a large pen that’s completely escape-proof. This means thinking carefully about the height of the fence, the materials it’s made from, and whether you need to bury the fencing to prevent digging.
Environmental enrichment
Foxes have a natural drive to dig, so you’ll need to provide a designated digging area. You’ll also want to give your fox toys and puzzle feeders to stimulate its mind and keep it from getting bored. Finally, your fox will need a safe, comfortable denning area where it can rest.
What do foxes eat?
In the wild, foxes eat a variety of things, including raw meat, insects, small prey, and even some vegetation. If you keep a fox as a pet, you’ll have to mimic this diet as closely as possible.
Some owners use specialized commercial fox food, but these products may still need to be supplemented with vitamins and minerals to be nutritionally complete.
It’s also important to know what not to feed a fox. Chocolate, onions, and garlic are all toxic and should be avoided.
Domestication, Socialization, and Training
It’s important to understand that foxes are not truly domesticated animals. Domestication is a long process that changes an animal at a genetic level. Taming a wild animal is not the same thing.
If you’re considering a fox, you’ll need to put a lot of effort into socializing it, starting when it’s a kit. Look for foxes that have been hand-raised and exposed to humans and other animals early in life. You’ll also need to use positive reinforcement to train it.
Even with training, foxes will behave like foxes. It’s important to understand their natural behaviors so you can manage them properly.
The Bottom Line
Owning a fox is a huge commitment. Foxes aren’t like dogs or cats, and they need specialized care to thrive.
If you’re considering buying a fox, make sure you do your homework and think about every angle before you make a decision. The most important thing is to make sure that a fox can thrive in your care.