Otters are playful, curious, and intelligent creatures that can make wonderful companions. However, before you decide to bring an otter into your home, it's important to do your research and make sure that you're prepared to provide the proper care and attention that these animals require.

Can I Own a Pet Otter?

Otter Care

Otters are semi-aquatic animals that need access to water for swimming, playing, and grooming. They also require a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Otters are social animals that live in groups, so it's important to provide them with plenty of interaction and enrichment.

Otter Housing

Otters need a large enclosure that is at least 10 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet tall. The enclosure should have a pool that is at least 4 feet deep and 6 feet wide. The pool should be filled with clean, fresh water and should be kept at a temperature of between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Otter Diet

Otters are carnivores and their diet should consist of a variety of fish, shrimp, and other small animals. Otters also need to eat a small amount of fruits and vegetables.

Otter Socialization

Otters are social animals and they need to interact with others of their kind. If you're only going to have one otter, you need to make sure that you spend a lot of time with them. Otters also enjoy playing with toys and exploring their environment.

Otter Training

Otters can be trained to do a variety of tricks, such as sit, stay, and come when called. Training can help to strengthen the bond between you and your otter and can also help to prevent problem behaviors.

Otter Health

Otters are generally healthy animals, but they can be susceptible to a variety of health problems, such as respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, and skin infections. It's important to take your otter to the veterinarian for regular checkups and to keep up with their vaccinations.

Is an Otter the Right Pet for You?

Otters can be wonderful companions, but they're not the right pet for everyone. Before you decide to bring an otter into your home, you need to make sure that you're prepared to provide the proper care and attention that these animals require. Otters can live for up to 10 years, so you need to be prepared to make a long-term commitment.