Do you love exotic animals? Do you have a large enough house with a big enough yard to accommodate a pet lemur? If so, then you’re likely considering buying a lemur as your next pet! This guide will teach you everything you need to know about buying a lemur, from what to look for when choosing a lemur to how to care for your new pet. So read on and learn all about the exciting world of lemurs!
Are Lemurs Legal to Own?
Owning a lemur, or any pet primate, requires thorough knowledge of the legal conflicts one will inevitably face. Primates are illegal in most U.S. states, as well as in many cities and counties. The federal government does not regulate the ownership of primates, so it is up to states and localities to enact laws banning or restricting their possession.
In some states, such as Ohio, owning a primate is outright illegal. In others, like Texas, owning a primate is legal but only if the owner has a permit.
Even in states where owning a primate is legal, cities and counties may have their own ordinances banning or strictly regulating primates as pets. As a result, anyone considering owning a primate should research the laws in their state, city, and county to ensure that they are in compliance.
Violating these laws can result in steep fines or even jail time. In addition to the legal challenges of owning a primate, potential owners must also be prepared to meet the animal’s physical and psychological needs.
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How to House a Lemur
Before you go about buying a pet lemur, it’s a good idea to set up your enclosure in advance. Baby lemurs can be housed in smaller, store-bought cages, but they will need to be moved to a larger enclosure as they grow.
A lemur’s enclosure should be at least 10 feet by 10 feet, with a height of at least 6 feet. It’s important to provide plenty of vertical space for climbing, as lemurs are naturally arboreal creatures.
The enclosure should also have multiple perches of different sizes and shapes, as well as hiding places for your lemur to retreat to when it feels overwhelmed or threatened. In terms of climate, lemurs prefer warm, humid conditions. If you live in an area with a cooler climate, you’ll need to take steps to ensure that your lemur’s enclosure is properly heated and ventilated.
By taking the time to set up an appropriate enclosure before you bring home your new pet, you can help to ensure that your lemur has a happy and long life.
Buying Your Pet Lemur
There are a surprisingly large number of places where lemurs can be obtained by private owners. While lemurs as a whole are troubled in the wild, certain species breed readily in captivity.
The most common species available are ring-tailed lemurs and ruffed lemurs, although other species such as red-bellied lemurs and black-and-white ruffed lemurs are also sometimes available. purchasing a captive-bred lemur is generally advisable, as it increases the chances of the animal being healthy and acclimated to captive life.
When buying a lemur, be sure to ask about the animal’s diet, housing requirements, and health history. It is also important to find out whether the seller is licensed to sell lemurs, as this is regulated in some states. With a little research, you can be sure to find the perfect pet lemur for your home.
Read More: 5 Deer Species That Are Kept as Pets
How Much Do Lemurs Cost?
Lemurs typically cost between $1,500 and $5,000, although the price can be higher or lower depending on the species, age, and health of the animal. Baby lemurs are often cheaper than adults, but they require more care and attention.
Some lemur breeders offer financing options to make purchasing a primate easier for buyers. In addition to the initial purchase price, potential lemur owners should budget for the animal’s ongoing food and medical expenses. Lemurs eat a diet of fruits, vegetables, and insects, and they require regular vet check-ups to stay healthy.
With proper care, a pet lemur can be a loving and loyal companion for many years to come. If you’re considering adding a lemur to your family, be sure to do your research to ensure that you’re prepared for the challenges and responsibilities involved.
Ruffed Lemurs
Ruffed lemurs are a type of primate that is native to Madagascar. They are the largest of all the lemurs, and they are characterized by their dense fur and ruffed facial hair. Ruffed lemurs are also said to have lower levels of aggression than ring-tailed lemurs. However, they are less commonly available and therefore more expensive. If you are considering purchasing a ruffed lemur, it is important to do your research ahead of time to make sure that you are getting a healthy animal.
Before Buying, Secure a Veterinarian
One of the most important things to do before you purchase any pet is to find a good veterinarian.
This is especially important with a lemur, as these animals require specialized care.
You should find a vet who has experience treating primates, and you should ask about the animal’s diet, housing requirements, and health history.
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Are Lemurs Right for You?
Lemur ownership often gets a bad rep because people who aren’t prepared for what primate ownership entails often re-home their poorly cared for animals to rescues who then urge the public that no one should be keeping them at all. While it’s true that lemurs require specialized care, the same can be said of any pet.
The key is to do your research and make sure you’re prepared to provide your lemur with everything he or she needs before bringing one home.
That being said, there are still many people who are dedicated to providing their lemurs with the best possible care. If you’re considering adding a lemur to your family, please take the time to learn about their needs and make sure you’re prepared to meet them.
