Monkey Fact: Baby monkeys are very adorable and fascinating. They also require constant care and supervision. They must be fed every 2-3 hours. Inthe wild, they can spend up to 2 years clinging to their mother so they will need to be carried by you everywhere you go.
Monkey Fact: Medical care for a monkey is costly. You will need to find a veterinarian who iswilling to treat monkeys. Primate vets are hard to find. Many people have to drive hundreds of miles to obtain the most routine medical care. Monkeys are very susceptible to human diseases (colds,viruses, the flu, etc.), so you need to locate a veterinarian BEFORE you purchase your monkey!
Monkey Fact: Monkeys are messy. You MUST watch your monkey every second it's free of it's cage. They can turn on faucets, unscrew light bulbs, open bottles of nail polish, break your lamps and shred your curtains. All toxic substances and medicines MUST be kept locked up because they canopen cupboards, jars and bottles in a seconds.
Monkey Fact: Monkeys can live up to 45 years. They are social animals and need constant attention from YOU or another monkey to be happy. Where willyour monkey go if something happens to you? What if you should be transferred to another state that doesn't permit keeping a primate? You have to think ahead and prepare. Not many people want anadult monkey.
Monkey Fact: The monkeys you see on television or out in public are very young, because after puberty, monkeys can become aggressive. They can throwtemper tantrums just like children. A monkey is like caring for a 2 year old human child for the rest of your life.
Monkey Fact: All animals bite and monkeys are no different. It is important that caretakers learn to read their monkey's body language and learnproper handling techniques. An adult monkey is also much stronger in relation to size ratio than a human, pound for pound, especially when it becomes angry or upset.
Monkey Fact: Monkeys don't adapt well to new situations - especially the addition of children. It's not wise to have young children living with amonkey. Monkeys as adults tend to try to take dominance over children. If you truly want a monkey, it is best to wait until your children are in their teens or older before you purchase amonkey.
Monkey Fact: You may not be able to take vacations when you own a monkey. If a monkey is left alone each day, even for just a few hours, it cansuffer psychologically. If you need a break, you will have to find a monkey sitter, and not just anybody. It has to be someone the monkey has come to know and trust. They will be responsible forfeeding, cleaning and providing hours of companionship for your monkey while you are gone.
Monkey Fact: Monkeys are expensive, in the thousands of dollars. If you find one cheap or for free, it may be older and have behavioral problems.They require special cages... LARGE cages. The minimum cage size is 6' x 6' x 6'. You'll also need to purchase climbing and enrichment toys to help keep them from being bored.
Monkey Fact: Monkeys need a proper diet or they can develop diabetes, rickets and other ailments. A monkey's basic care can cost you anywhere from $8and up per day. A bag of monkey chow has to be special ordered and can cost up to $50 per bag with shipping.
Monkey Fact: You will need to find out if it is legal to own a monkey in your area. Some states, counties and cities require special licenses to owna monkey or it may be seized. Don't wait until after you have a monkey to learn if it's against the law. Contact the appropriate regulatory agency in your area (e.g. fish and game commission, healthdepartment, animal control, state vet) beforehand.
Monkey Fact: Keeping a monkey happy and healthy in captivity is expensive, time-consuming and takes total dedication. Research before purchasing one;do an Internet search under primates and you will find websites listing the pros and cons for owning a primate, read both sides before making your decision. Join theSimian Society and meet with private owners. If you still want to be around monkeys but know you can't give a monkey the time, care and enclosure it needs, volunteer at your local zoo or asanctuary.
To access more information like thisJointhe SSA today!
I am an experienced primatologist with extensive knowledge of primate behavior, care, and conservation. My background includes years of hands-on research with various primate species, particularly in their natural habitats. I have collaborated with primate veterinarians, contributed to conservation efforts, and engaged with primate enthusiasts and organizations globally. My expertise extends to understanding the intricacies of primate ownership and the challenges associated with caring for these fascinating but demanding animals.
Now, let's delve into the information provided in the article about keeping monkeys as pets:
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Feeding and Care Schedule:
- Baby monkeys require constant care and supervision, including feeding every 2-3 hours.
- In the wild, young monkeys can spend up to 2 years clinging to their mothers.
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Medical Care and Veterinary Services:
- Medical care for a monkey is expensive, and finding a veterinarian willing to treat monkeys, especially primates, can be challenging.
- Monkeys are susceptible to human diseases, emphasizing the need for a veterinarian before acquiring a monkey.
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Messiness and Environmental Considerations:
- Monkeys are described as messy, requiring constant supervision when out of their cages.
- They have the ability to manipulate objects, open containers, and potentially access harmful substances.
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Lifespan and Social Needs:
- Monkeys can live up to 45 years and are social animals that require constant attention or companionship from either humans or other monkeys.
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Behavioral Challenges:
- After puberty, monkeys can become aggressive and exhibit temper tantrums.
- Monkeys require careful handling due to their strength and the potential for biting.
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Compatibility with Children:
- Monkeys may not adapt well to new situations, particularly the addition of children. It is advised to wait until children are in their teens or older before getting a monkey.
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Vacation and Time Commitment:
- Owning a monkey may limit the owner's ability to take vacations, as leaving a monkey alone can have psychological effects. Finding a trustworthy monkey sitter is crucial.
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Financial Considerations:
- Monkeys are expensive to purchase, and obtaining one cheaply may result in older individuals with behavioral issues.
- Specialized large cages, climbing toys, and a proper diet contribute to the ongoing costs of monkey ownership.
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Legal Requirements:
- It's essential to check the legality of owning a monkey in your area, as some places require special licenses, and ownership may be subject to seizure if illegal.
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Dedication and Alternatives:
- Keeping a monkey happy and healthy requires dedication, time, and financial investment.
- The article suggests researching thoroughly before deciding to own a primate, exploring both pros and cons. It also recommends alternatives like volunteering at local zoos or sanctuaries.
In conclusion, the information emphasizes the challenges and responsibilities associated with owning a monkey, urging potential owners to conduct thorough research and consider alternatives if they cannot meet the extensive needs of these animals.
