by Brenda Nelson

Created on: April 17, 2010   Last Updated: April 10, 2012

Fennec foxes are small, wild, canines that normally live in the desert areas of Northern Africa and Saudi Arabia, and have recently become popular as exotic pets.

Fennec foxes are considered of least concern on the world conservation status chart, however some areas have CITES laws, or area laws, that restrict them from being kept as pets without special permits. As such anyone interested in acquiring a fennec fox as a pet should first research the exotic pet ownership laws in their area.

-Characteristics-

The lifespan of fennec foxes is roughly 12-16 years in captivity so people who may be considering in getting one need to consider their ability to provide a lifetime commitment to such a pet.

Fennec foxes are fairly small, standing only 8 inches (20 cm) tall, and weighing less than a small cat, on average 2 - 3.5 pounds.

Unlike most domestic dogs, fennec foxes are nocturnal. This is probably a point of concern for some owners, as these animals are awake and active at night.

Fennec foxes have large ears that are a desert adaptation, helping them to stay cool in the heat.  They can tolerate some cold but if in climates where the temperature regularly drops below freezing they require extra protection when outside, and should not be left out for long. Careful attention should prevent them from getting frost bite on their ears.

On the whole fennec foxes should be considered as playful canines with cat like personalities. 

-Feeding-

Fennec foxes are omnivores, in the wild they will eat what they catch, bugs, mice, even eggs. As house pets they should be fed a top quality dog food.  The dog food may be supplemented with fruit, cooked vegetables, eggs, mealworms, and even canned dog, or cat, food.

-Care-

Fennec foxes can be litter trained if introduced to it at an early age. As they enjoy digging, even more so than a cat, their litter box should be covered. Similarly they can be house trained to go outside, where they will enjoy having a place to dig for their bathroom purposes. As with house training other dogs, rewarding for correct behavior works a lot better than punishing them for the wrong behavior.

These exotic pets will need regular vaccinations which should be discussed with their breeder and your veterinarian according to your areas risk factors. They will also need to be dewormed (including for heartworm). Be sure your vet is familiar with providing care for these animals, and that the check to ensure any vaccine provided is safe for fennec foxes.

Fennec foxes are social animals who thrive on attention. For them to be successfully kept as pets it is important that they are socialized to humans at an early stage. Their wild and curious nature can lead them into trouble (they will escape from most yards) so must be watched carefully. They are good climbers and diggers. It is important that a fennec fox be walked on a snug collar, or harness, when startled they tend to bolt and can slip out of a loose collar with ease and will run.

As mischievous, and smart, animals, it is important pet fennec foxes are kept in a kennel when they cannot be watched or they may become destructive. Providing ample toys is important.

When happy, fennec foxes tend to purr like cats, this is just part of the earlier mentioned cat-like personality.  Curiosity being another part.

If you are considering getting a fennec fox as an exotic pet you should do more research and speak to people who own them. Never purchase a fennec fox through a pet store or similar “supplier”, always deal directly with the breeder.

Learn more about this author, Brenda Nelson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.