Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips (2024)

What you need to know

By Janhvi Johorey, Psychologist specialized in animal therapy. May 24, 2017

Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips (2)

The jury's still out on whether having a pet monkey is a good idea or a violation of basic rights of the animals to freedom of movement and existence. Keeping a pet monkey is a big commitment and no, it's not as simple as running off to a pet store and getting a simian friend for life.

Monkeys belong to the primate order. It is a generic name that includes the New World monkeys from Central and South America, which tend to be quite small, and the larger tree-dwelling Old World monkeys, found in Asia and Africa. Each of these monkeys is unique and this influences whether they will make good pets.

If you're wondering whether you can keep monkeys as pets, stay with us at AnimalWised. We'll give you some guidelines and basic tips to help you make up your mind.

You may also be interested in: Marmosets as Pets: Guidelines and General Tips

Contents
  1. Can you keep monkeys as pets?
  2. What are monkeys in captivity like?
  3. Is it legal to keep monkeys as pets?
  4. Adopting a pet monkey
  5. What do monkeys in captivity need?
  6. Should monkeys be kept as pets?

Can you keep monkeys as pets?

Squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys, macaques, and capuchins are just some of the monkey species that people consider keeping as pets. Another common monkey to consider is the marmoset; if that's what you were thinking about, take a look at our article on marmosets as pets for specific guidance.

Sociable yet nervous, monkeys need a lot of space. Although all monkeys have roughly the same basic requirements, larger monkeys obviously need more room. Bringing a monkey into your house is a massive commitment because unlike cats and dogs, they cannot be left alone for long periods of time.

What are monkeys in captivity like?

Once your pet monkey develops a close attachment to you, they will follow you everywhere. Remember that monkeys have a much longer lifespan than other animals. The average life expectancy of a monkey in captivity is of around 20 to 40 years, although it depends on the species. Keeping monkeys as pets is the commitment of a lifetime.

Once they become mature, the behavior of captive monkeys can become unpredictable. Remember this when you are thinking of adopting a pet monkey. Monkeys tend to bond with some people only and might start developing negative reactions to your close companions.

That said, once you decide you have the interest, commitment, resources and temperament to handle a pet monkey, you can definitely go ahead, because they are incredibly affectionate, intelligent and endearing animals.

Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips (3)

Is it legal to keep monkeys as pets?

It is also important to check if keeping a pet monkey is allowed in your state or country. More countries and states are passing laws to protect primates and bear in mind that it is illegal to carry your pet monkey into the US. Traveling abroad with a pet monkey is also a strict no-no. Monkeys are sensitive creatures and they can get easily unsettled with displacement.

Adopting a pet monkey

Look for a breeder with a humane reputation, and check exotic animal shelters. Do your research and check if they have the permit to keep and give monkeys for adoption. Check the monkey's health record and behavior before taking on the commitment.

Make sure you have a connection and find an exotic animal veterinary doctor to care for your pet. Regular vets will not be able to care for your monkey.

What do monkeys in captivity need?

Build or purchase a monkey cage that is large enough for your pet monkey to enjoy freedom of movement - the specific size will depend on the particular species. All monkeys need plenty of space to run, explore and play with themselves and others. Small cages can make the animal feel aggressive and suffocated. Be sure to follow regulations that make it easy to save the animal from an unsavory experience.

The diet for a pet monkey will depend on their species, as some monkeys are omnivores and others are exclusively herbivores. In general, fruits, veggies and clean water are a must. Specialized stores also sell commercial food for monkeys, including monkey biscuits.

Other items to feed your monkey can include cooked, mild chicken, mealworms, grasshoppers, boiled eggs, curd, rice, nuts, and grains. Sugary treats, ice cream, junk food or raw meat should never ever be fed to a monkey. Extra vitamins may be needed to keep your pet healthy. Ask your vet for advice.

Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips (4)

Should monkeys be kept as pets?

Some of the reasons why the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) does not advocate keeping primates as pets is their lifestyle, dietary patterns, environmental needs and other medical factors. Therefore, here at AnimalWised we must state that you shouldn't keep monkeys as pets.

Monkeys need plenty of space to be happy and healthy. Even when born in captivity, they need to stay with their species and live in similar conditions to those in the wild as much as possible. Forests or urban jungles, the best place for a monkey is a free one. Pet monkeys eventually outgrow their owners, according to many animal experts. Don't jail a monkey for life, it deserves to be free. Consider this before you take on a monkey for a pet.

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Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips (2024)

FAQs

Monkeys as Pets: Guidelines and Basic Tips? ›

Monkeys need a lot of room to move around and play. They like to roam outdoors as much as possible. If they're not in the wild, then they need a secure enclosure that is huge and expensive. Certain states require certain types of enclosures in order to obtain a permit to have a pet monkey.

What are the basic needs of a monkey? ›

Natural daylight for primates

Generally, all primates should have access to natural daylight for proper conversion of pro-vitamin D2 to vitamin D3. Nocturnal primates may not get enough sunlight and therefore their diet may need to include vitamin D3 supplements.

Is it safe to have a monkey as a pet? ›

Primates can become violent toward humans who try to domesticate them. If kept isolated in captivity, they can develop mental health problems that can cause them to attack and injure people. Most primates need to live in social groups to survive and thrive.

Are pet monkeys easy to take care of? ›

All primates, big and small, have complex social, physical and psychological needs that require expert care. Monkeys are social creatures that require constant interaction with their own species as part of a large group. They need space to climb and play, a proper diet, and lots of mental stimulation.

Are pet monkeys high maintenance? ›

Monkeys are quite demanding in terms of care and attention. They have particular food and environmental requirements, which can be difficult and expensive to satisfy. For their wellbeing, appropriate shelter, enrichment, and mental stimulation are crucial.

What are the 4 rules to manage monkeys? ›

They are:
  • Describe the monkey. The dialogue between a manager and a staff member must not end until appropriate next moves have been identified and clearly specified.
  • Assign the monkey. All monkeys shall be owned and handled at the lowest organizational level possible.
  • Insure the monkey. ...
  • Check on the monkey.
Sep 20, 2010

What are the three monkey rules? ›

The phrase "See no evil, Hear no evil, Speak no evil" first emerged in Japan in the 17th century and then was later adopted worldwide as a message of peace and tolerance due to Mahatma Gandhi's visual metaphor of the three monkeys, with one of them covering his eyes, the second his mouth, and the third his ears.

What not to do with a monkey? ›

Don't yell at, sing to, tease or heckle the monkey. Avoid any postures that would seem aggressive to a fellow human being and keep your motions minimal. Being aggressive will only get you attacked. Be careful when taking pictures.

What are the disadvantages of having a pet monkey? ›

They're potentially dangerous - while they might look cute, they can become aggressive when they mature and have been known to bite and attack their owners. Not suitable house pets - primates need space, companions and mental stimulation - not what you find in someone's living room.

What smell do monkeys hate? ›

Sprinkling vegetables with pepper will deter monkeys from eating them. The chemical Capsaicincontained in chilli is an excellent repellent against monkeys, squirrels, and some other wild animals. Farmers who grow chilli will also benefit from an extra source of income.

Can a monkey be potty trained? ›

Most monkeys cannot be effectively toilet trained. Sometimes, younger monkeys can be partially potty trained, but they lose that ability as they mature. In addition, as they're attempting to potty train, they tend to throw their poop and play with their pee.

What is the lifespan of a pet monkey? ›

What Is the Life Span of a Pet Monkey? Generally, monkeys can live 20 to 40 years, so they are a long-term commitment. A monkey's life span will also depend on their species. A chimpanzee can live 50 years or more, while a capuchin can live 15 to 25 years.

Can you leave a monkey home alone? ›

Monkeys cannot be left to their own devices. They need constant attention and care, or else they can end up hurting themselves or someone else. And since they tend to bond with just one person, it's difficult to find a good monkey-sitter when you need some time to yourself.

Do pet monkeys smell? ›

Everyone asks if our monkeys smell bad or assume that they always have a smell. Some species of monkeys do put off an odor but the only odor that comes from ours is when they need a diaper change.

What is the friendliest monkey breed? ›

Northern Muriqui Monkeys are the most peaceful primates in the world, living in uniquely egalitarian societies where relationships between males and females are free of conflict, and instead full of hugs.

What is the best monkey type to have as a pet? ›

And the number one spot goes to the capuchin monkey! Famous for their intelligence and often seen in movies, capuchins are highly trainable. and can learn a lot of different tricks. Their playful personality and clever antics. will keep you entertained and amazed everyday.

What do you need for a monkey? ›

Monkeys need a large, secure enclosure, which can be expensive to construct. They should spend time outdoors if possible. And they must be provided with a wide variety of ever-changing toys and exercise equipment to keep them challenged or they will suffer from boredom.

What do monkeys eat on a daily basis? ›

In the wild, rhesus monkeys thrive on fruits, seeds, roots, herbs and insects. In captivity, monkeys primarily eat monkey chow, and an array of fresh, seasonal fruit, vegetables and nuts once to twice a week to provide them with variety and to supplement their diet (photo below).

What do monkeys like the most? ›

In the wild, most monkeys are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and meat. And all monkeys eat about the same things. Depending on their habitat, there may be some slight changes, but all monkeys eat fruits, leaves, seeds, nuts, flowers, vegetables, and insects.

What features help monkeys survive? ›

Adaptations of monkeys include opposable thumbs, prehensile tails and living in large, social groups. Opposable thumbs are a structural adaptation found on the hands of most primates. Opposable thumbs have the ability to rotate in both directions, making it possible to grasp objects.

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