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Fennec Fox Care

First and foremost make sure that it is legal to own a fennec fox in your area. You will need to check with your state's DNR or Fish and Wildlife Division. Also some counties and cities have their own ordinances regarding the ownership of exotic pets. It is better to have all your bases covered than to find out later that your fox is illegal to own.


Diet-I feed canned cat food (Friskies sliced chicken, the first ingredient is chicken, rather than by-products), a variety of fresh produce, and Purina dry Puppy Chow, Little Bites or Pedigree small crunchy bites. I feed pups twice a day, the adults once a day, with dry food out to nibble through the day. I give a variety of fresh produce. I have fresh water available at all  times. I leave a dish out where they can get to it while they are free in the house, and a water bottle in their kennel. They do not drink much water, in the wild almost none, but they need to have it available. Treats can include various kinds of fruit, not too much though as it can cause loose stools. They all seem to love fruit, most like bananas and watermelon. As the pups get older you can experiment with different kinds of treats like Cheerios and goldfish crackers. For a special treat or to lure them to do something, they adore mini marshmallows, definitely use in moderation.


Housing- a dog kennel, large ferret cage, or cat play cage will work fine. You can also construct a larger cage if the fennec will need to be housed in it for longer lengths of time. Be sure the pup cannot escape. If it can, use chicken wire or other small wire to cover the kennel or cage until the pup gets bigger.


Social adjustment- the fennecs need a lot of playtime. The more they can have the run of the house or at least a room, the better. The more time you spend with them, the more they will bond with you. When the pup is out, pick it up often, rub it and hold it close to you, then let it back down to play. This will make you familiar to the fox but it will learn that holding doesn't mean the end of playtime. They will learn their name quite quickly, especially if a treat is offered occasionally when they come when called. Some foxes are cuddlier than others and will want to be held and stroked. Some will prefer affection only on their terms, preferring an ear or tummy rub when they lay next to you.


Health Needs- first, find a vet who will treat your fox before you need them. Some small animal vets may treat them, if they understand that they are tame and handleable. Your pup will have its vaccination against distemper when you receive it. The manufacturer recommends yearly boosters, but that is for dogs. I don't think it is necessary to vaccinate that often. The only distemper vaccine I use and recommend is Galaxy D. I give 2- ½ doses 10 days apart. For rabies, I recommend Imrab-3. If you ever need to have a vet administer anesthesia, make sure they are very careful, as these foxes are extremely sensitive. I have had good luck with ampicillin when an antibiotic is needed. It is a good idea to worm the foxes every 6 months. I use Nemex 2, it can be purchased over the counter, I get mine at a farm store.


Litter boxes-Some foxes take to the litter box easier than others. I use Yesterday's News paper litter. Some foxes like to dig in their litter box and it is less dusty than clay litter. A covered litter box is a good idea if your particular fox digs a lot while in the kennel; it helps to minimize the mess. Do not use clumping litter, as it will stick to the fur on their feet. If the foxes have a large area of the house to run in, it is a good idea to have more than one litter box out. It is also a good idea to have their kennel accessible to them, as they may prefer to use the litter box in their kennel. This also gives them a safe haven if they want to take a nap, especially if there are other pets in the house.  I use Zema puppy training spray to help attract the pups to the litter.  I recommend its continued use after you get them home.  Most fennecs will not completely litter train.  Some do better with puppy pads or newspaper.  Some just never get the hang of it.  Something all potential fennec owners should be prepared for.


Toys- Fennecs love mouse-shaped cat toys most will throw them in the air chase them and pounce on them. Some also like to play with small balls especially soft ones that make noise. Any toy that the fox can chew up is obviously not a good idea. Also, I don't leave toys in the kennel, they may find a way to chew off a piece and choke.


Precautions-The most important part of fox-proofing your house is to make sure there are not things lying around they can chew up or swallow. They seem to be attracted to rubbery things; rubber bands, rubber earplugs, pacifiers or bottle nipples could land you the vet's office with your fox requiring surgery (I speak from experience). They also like to chew up Styrofoam. Most foxes do not like to be bothered when they are eating. They will feel the need to defend their food. That usually means they will nip. It is not a good idea to leave children unattended with your fox. They are still essentially wild animals although they are very sweet and tame; they can be more unpredictable than a dog. You will get to know your fox. If it is not acting normal to you, it is a good idea to have it checked. They are very hardy and unusual behavior may be the only symptom you get that something is wrong.