Opossums are often considered to be strange and undesirable creatures, but they can actually make quite good pets. They are relatively low-maintenance, have a sweet and gentle disposition, and are generally very healthy animals.

Do Opossums Make Good Pets?

Pros of Owning an Opossum as a Pet

There are several reasons why opossums make good pets.

1. They are low-maintenance. Opossums do not require a lot of space, and they are not very active animals. They can be kept in a cage or a large terrarium, and they only need to be fed once or twice a day. Opossums are also very clean animals, and they do not produce a lot of odor.

2. They are sweet and gentle. Opossums are not aggressive animals, and they are generally very friendly and docile. They are also very curious and playful, and they can provide hours of entertainment. Opossums are also very social animals, and they will often bond with their owners.

3. They are generally very healthy. Opossums are not prone to many health problems, and they are typically very easy to care for. However, it is important to take your opossum to the vet for regular checkups to ensure that it is healthy.

Cons of Owning an Opossum as a Pet

There are also a few things to consider before deciding to own an opossum as a pet.

1. They can be destructive. Opossums are very curious animals, and they can get into trouble if they are not properly supervised. They can chew on furniture, electrical cords, and other objects. It is important to provide your opossum with plenty of toys to play with to help prevent it from becoming destructive.

2. They can carry diseases. Opossums can carry a variety of diseases, including salmonella and tularemia. It is important to wash your hands after handling your opossum and to keep it away from other animals and children.

3. They are not legal to own in some areas. In some areas, it is illegal to own an opossum as a pet. It is important to check your local laws before deciding to get an opossum.

Overall, opossums can make great pets for people who are looking for a unique and low-maintenance animal. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks before deciding to own one.