When Cute Masks Come Off: Raccoon Ownership Rules to Know

Have you seen those adorable little masks on raccoons and thought about keeping one as a pet? I certainly couldn't blame you—their round little faces and tiny paws are just begging to be cuddled. But before you rush out to adopt a raccoon, there are a few things you should know first.

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For starters, raccoons may look cute but they're still wild animals. Instincts like chasing small creatures or rummaging through your trash are hard-wired into them. No matter how well socialized, raccoons can be unpredictable. Their sharp claws and teeth mean they can potentially hurt you or your other pets during play. Since they're nocturnal, you'd also have an animal awake all night then sleeping all day.

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Their natural habitat is also in forests and fields, not living rooms. Raccoons need a lot of space to climb, jump and explore to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Even large outdoor enclosures may not provide enough room. You'd also need to raccoon-proof your entire property so they couldn't escape and possibly transmit diseases to other wildlife.

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On top of that, many areas have laws prohibiting raccoon ownership. I can't recommend getting a pet that could land you in legal trouble. Plus, veterinary care for wild animals often isn't as readily available as for cats and dogs. A sick or injured raccoon might not get the treatment it needs.

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My advice would be to admire raccoons from afar, like at your local zoo or wildlife refuge. Their independent personalities and habitat needs make them challenging pets for most homes and lifestyles. If you're still tempted, consider volunteering with a wildlife rehab organization instead. That way you can spend quality time with rehabilitating raccoons without the long-term commitment of owning one. Sometimes the best relationships are the ones where both parties get to go home at the end of the day!