Why is it not wise to keep a raccoon as a pet?

Answer by  bl834 (1317)

It's illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet in some places. They can get rabies and distemper. Finding a vet that'll treat a raccoon may be hard.

Answer by  Feasel (1766)

Its not the baby raccoons that are the problem. As they grow up they tend to get much more aggressive hence, they may attack you even if you gave it your love. Not to mention they're not very trainable and are probably going to go through the trash for food rather than in a food dish.

Answer by  guilmo (118)

A raccoon may transmit the plague to dogs and cats. In addition it is a very good climber and is fed eggs of birds. This could destroy biodiversity.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

Raccoons are not meant by nature to be pets. They need to roam and explore and be with their own kind. As they get older, they get destructive and aggressive. Keeping a raccoon by itself would be a very lonely, unhappy life for your pet, he wants to run wild, climb and explore, and raise a family. Nature intends this.

Answer by  Heather726 (257)

A raccoon, even a baby one, is a wild animal. They aren't domesticated to live peacefully with humans. Plus, raccoons are nocturnal scavengers; they're up at night getting into garbage.

Answer by  Bookinhanf (5)

In many states it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet, and in others you need a license in order to do. Raccoons are also very smart, and very curious. They can even open locks, and will rip a room apart if they're bored.

Answer by  pagan23 (1342)

It is very dangerous because it might have rabies and it is a wild animal. It could get you very sick or seriously injure you. Let animal control deal with it.