The Opossum - Very Popular Exotic Pet

You may be surprised to find out that opossums are really starting to intrigue people and they are becoming a very popular exotic pet. The short tailed versions are definitely very cute! They can also be very friendly as well. All opossums have tails but some of them are shorter than others. No matter which version, the tails are hairless. The opossum is only about seven inches in length. They are not very big and therefore they can be kept in a smaller cage than your average cat or dog would be kept inside of.

Opossums do not usually eat leaves they are known for eating bugs such as spiders and other small rodents like mice. Opossums usually use their tails to hold on to and climb up things. The short tailed opossums do not use their tails for climbing because the tails are too short. Opossums will become great pets if they are with you at a young age. They cannot be kept with other opossums because they will fight with the other opossum. If you have two of them you will need to keep them in separate cages and not introduce them to each other. It's hard to break up a opossum fight!

These animals are nocturnal which means they will be very active at night just like most other pets. You should keep them in an area where they won't keep you up at night. Make sure the cage is secure or they will break loose. It's not fun chasing around a pet opossum that is loose in your home. If you have a long tailed version than it can climb up things in your home.

You need to check laws about opossums before you get one. About 80% of states in the U.S. will not allow any type of wild animal in your home. If you are allowed to keep a wild animal you will most likely need a permit. Even if the opossum is orphaned, this is still no exception. You need to figure out the laws before you find one that you cannot keep. You will face a fine and the animal will be taken away if you can get caught with the animal.

If you are able to have an opossum you will definitely want to spend a lot of time with the pet. The more time you spend with your pets the friendlier they will become. These animals cannot be ignored, they strive for attention.