Do Civet Cats Make Good Pets? (Quick Answer)

Disclaimer: The information presented below is for general informational & educational purposes only. Always consult with animal professionals in case of specific concerns.

Civets are not the same as others so if you ask the question, do civet cats make good pets?

They do but you have to be patient with them, they are not like the usual pets.

This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about these creatures.

Do Civet Cats Make Good Pets?

Yes, they do make good pets, but like all animals, they have their needs.

a civet cat is a nocturnal creature so it will be very active at night.

Civet cats are also very curious creatures so you will need to make sure that your home is “cat proofed” before bringing one home.

Civet cats can be litter box trained, but may not use it consistently.

They are also known for being destructive and chewing on cords and other household items.

For these reasons, it’s important to provide your civet cat with plenty of stimulation and toys to keep them occupied.

Civet cats do best in homes where someone is around during the day, as they are prone to loneliness and boredom if left alone for too long.

They are also social creatures and enjoy the company of other civet cats or even dogs and children.

If you’re looking for a unique pet that will keep you entertained and engaged, a civet cat may be the right choice for you.

Just be sure to provide them with everything they need to thrive.

Is It Legal to Own A Civet?

In some parts of the world, it is perfectly legal to own a civet as a pet.

However, in other areas, owning this type of animal is prohibited by law.

If you are considering owning a civet, it is important to research the laws in your area to ensure that you are not breaking any regulations.

What Are Civet Cats?

Civet cats are small, nocturnal creatures that are native to Africa and Asia.

These unique animals are best known for the musky scent they produce, which is used in the production of perfume and cologne.

Though they may look like a cross between a cat and a squirrel, civet cats are members of the Viverridae family, which includes mongooses and meerkats.

There are around 20 different species of civet cat, all of which vary slightly in size and appearance.

The largest civet cat is the African civet, which can grow up to four feet long and weigh up to 60 pounds.

The smallest civet cat is the Chinese mountain cat, which only grows to be about two feet long.

As one of the animals with stripes and spots, civet cats typically have brown or black skin, with white markings on their faces and tails.

They have long, lithe bodies and relatively short legs.

Their eyes are large and round, and they have long whiskers that help them navigate in the dark.

Civet cats are proficient climbers, and can often be seen perched high up in trees.

These solitary animals are most active at night when they hunt for small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

During the day, civet cats usually sleep in dens or caves.

Do Civet Cats Attack, Humans?

No, Civet cats are shy animals but they can get aggressive if they feel threatened.

They will usually only attack if they feel like their life is in danger.

Civet cats will also attack if they are provoked or if they feel like their territory is being invaded.

If you are bitten by a civet cat, wash the wound with soap and water right away.

See a doctor if the bite is deep or if you have any other symptoms, such as fever or swelling.

Read more: Are Badgers Dangerous to Humans, Dogs, And Cats?

How Much Do Civet Cats Cost?

Civet cats can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000, depending on the species, their age, and where you purchase them.

It is important to do your research before buying a civet cat to make sure that you are getting a healthy animal from a reputable source.

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Civet Cat?

do civet cats make good pets

There is no definitive answer as to when you should spay or neuter your civet cat.

However, most experts agree that it is best to do so before they reach sexual maturity, which occurs around six months of age.

This will help to prevent unwanted litter and reduce the risk of aggression and other behavioral issues.

How Do Civet Cats Breed?

Civet cats mate seasonally, with the breeding season occurring between February and April.

During this time, the male will follow around the female until she is ready to mate.

The female will then allow the male to mount her and the two will copulate for up to an hour.

Following copulation, the male will leave the area and play no role in raising the kittens.

The gestation period for civet cats is approximately 75 days, after which the female will give birth to a litter of two to six kittens.

The kittens are born blind and deaf, but they grow quickly, gaining their sight and hearing after about two weeks.

They are weaned at around three months of age and will reach sexual maturity at around 18 months.

Females typically give birth to one litter per year.

What Do Civet Cats Eat?

Civet cats are carnivores and their diet consists mainly of meat.

In the wild, they will hunt for small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

They will also eat eggs, insects, and fruits.

When kept as pets, civet cats should be fed a diet of high-quality dry cat food or raw meat.

Read more: Do Stoats Make Good Pets?

Do Civet Cats Shed?

Yes, civet cats do shed.

However, they are not considered to be heavy shedders.

You can expect to see some hair around your home, but it shouldn’t be excessive.

Regular brushing will help to reduce shedding and keep your civet cat’s coat healthy and free of mats.

How Often Should I Bathe My Civet Cat?

You should bathe your civet cat as needed, but no more than once a week.

Overbathing can strip the natural oils from their skin and fur, which can lead to dryness and irritation.

When bathing your civet cat, use a mild shampoo designed specifically for cats.

What Health Problems Do Civet Cats Have?

Civet cats are generally healthy animals.

However, like all animals, they are susceptible to some health problems.

These include obesity, dental issues, and heart disease.

It is important to take your civet cat to the vet for regular check-ups to help catch any problems early on.

Conclusion

In short, civet cats do make great pets because they are intelligent, affectionate, and relatively low-maintenance.

However, it is important to do your research before you buy one to make sure that you are aware of the potential health problems they may experience.