How To Raise Raccoons!

How to raise raccoons

Introduction

The raccoon is one of nature's most flexible creatures. As a species, they have changed and adapted in order to survive increasing urbanization and the subsequent loss of natural habitat. Though they are not truly domesticated yet, they are currently being sold as pets. Loveable, inquisitive and undeniably adorable, raccoons can learn to share your home but you must always remember, even when spayed or neutered, they will remain very much creatures of the wild. However challenging, raising raccoons can be a very rewarding experience. The basic steps for caring for them are outlined in the guide below.

Raccoon proof your home. Raccoons should not be raised in cages, although it may be necessary to 'crate' them while you are out to prevent any number of possible accidents. As such, you will need to make your home as salubrious as possible by securing all of your cupboards with child-proof locks and placing all breakables in storage.

Fashion a room for your raccoon. Give the critter plenty of blankets and bedding. He will have a wonderful time shredding it and digging small holes to nest in. Raccoons also enjoy playing with stuffed toys, rattles and balls. Scan the aisles of the local department store for durable infant and toddler toys with minimal parts. Select those that are easy to clean and pose no choking hazard.

Obtain any relevant permits from your local extension agent or department of wildlife and then purchase your raccoon. Choose a juvenile that seems grand and sociable. Look for glossy fur and shining eyes.

Introduce your raccoon to the litter box as soon as possible. Place her in the box every 30 minutes or so, until she eliminates in the box. Then offer her a food reward, such as a share of fruit, a graham cracker or even a bit of live bait. With repetition and positive reinforcement, she will eventually understand the purpose of the box. However, you should expect some deviation from this behavior during the mating season when raccoons will experience a natural urge to mark their territory.

Feed your raccoon twice a day. They enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables as well as lean meats such as skinless turkey, chicken or fish. They also do well on high protein dog food with the occasional handful of leafy greens thrown in for good measure. Raccoons are shockingly messy at mealtimes as they esteem to dunk their food into water and will regularly 'play' with their dinner. Cleanup time can be minimized by placing the food on a laminated or waterproof mat.

Comb your raccoon with a soft bristled brush once a day and give him a bath once every 6 months. Excessive washing with shampoo will remove essential oils from his skin. If you find your raccoon needs additional washing, you can place him in a tub of warm water and let him splash around with a few toys.

Treat your raccoon for roundworms and have them vaccinated for distemper- even if they discontinue indoors all the time. Both of these are very common in raccoon populations and either one could be devastating for your pet.

Tips, adult raccoons do not enjoy living with other raccoons and tend to adapt better to households where they are the only pet.

If your raccoon behaves in an harmful manner, establish him in his room for a 10 minute time out.

Warning, do not let your raccoon climb on you. It may be cute when they're petite, but as adults they weigh more than 50 pounds on average and their efforts to climb you can be uncomfortable or even dangerous.

A raccoon that has been raised as a pet cannot be released into the wild without extensive training as they will be unable to fend for themselves.

Even a well-behaved raccoon will bite on occasion. Be clear to keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand so you can effectively treat the wound.

Sources: - personal knowledge

http://www.orphanedwildlifecare.com/raccooncare.htm#8

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