Care Sheet on a Pet Opossum

The common opossum of North America is sometimes taken in by households as potential pets. Because opossum have not been domesticated, the legality of owning opossums as pets varies from state to state. Despite their wild disposition, opossums are capable of bonding with human companions and getting along with other household pets.

  1. Environment

    • Opossums are curious creatures and require a large environment to explore. Adult opossums enjoy exploring the ins and outs of their environments and will become bored if left in an old and uninteresting environment for too long. As fully grown, wild opossums are accustomed to wandering great distances in a single night, it is important that you never confine your pet opossum to a cage. You can promote the mental health of your pet opossum by giving it lots of space to explore. Be warned though, opossums might damage furniture and other household items, so monitor your opossum closely to prevent any destructive behavior.

    Diet

    • Unlike cats and dogs, opossums cannot maintain a healthy diet on conventional pet food. The excess fat, protein and vitamins found in these pet foods, along with other foods such as meat, milk and cheese are dangerous to the health of your opossum. As omnivores, opossums feed on fruits, small mammals, insects, grasses and various carrion. Although opossums do not require too much water, leave a fresh bowl of water out daily. Replicating the natural diet of an opossum is the best way to ensure a healthy life.

    Cleanliness

    • An unwanted stench might trail your opossum if its hygienic needs are not appropriately addressed. Opossums often groom themselves, keeping their fur clean and free of any dirt or other debris. However, you might be required to regularly clean your furniture and carpets to keep the natural scent of opossums at bay. Although some opossums are capable of being paper trained, the results tend to be tenuous at best. You should always be ready to scoop up any mess that might occur elsewhere in the house.

    Potential Health Problems

    • Opossums are not traditional household pets, and might be prone to developing abnormalities from living in captivity. Signs of an unhealthy opossum include a swollen tail; black spots and lumps on the skin; dark, pungent urine; bulging eyes and poor posture. If your opossum exhibits any of these traits, it should be taken to a veterinarian right away.