Generally when one thinks of the skunk the first thought that runs through the mind isn't "what a terrific pet!" Skunks can, however, be a lovely pet addition to the right family.

Skunks are native to North America and have an interesting history. Skunks were once trapped for their fur, pieces of which were often combined with more valuable mink and sable fur and sold for top dollar. Some brave souls would don an entire skunk pelt as a sign of their hunting prowess. It's said that farmers cherished the sight of a skunk as they would feed on garden pests. Today, however, most skunks either remain wild, live in rehabilitation facilities and zoos or are bred for the pet industry.

Caring for your pet skunk isn't much more difficult than caring for your average American Domestic feline. Skunks, as with most mammals, have unique personalities. Your first skunk should be purchased from a breeder as a baby or adopted from a family or shelter who housed the animal in a similar situation. Skunks who have been acclimated to life in a family with children generally do well with older children. Caution is always to be taken when introducing any animal into a family with young children.

Skunks can be litter trained, which is a definite plus to ownership. Cover less litter boxes are generally best, you can use a covered box if you make some modifications to accommodate the skunk's size. While most cats and kittens take to the litter box immediately it may take a bit more work with a skunk. Purchase a quality enzymatic pet odor eliminator during the training process. I prefer Nature's Miracle, which is available at pet stores, discount stores and online through the link at the bottom of this article. Using a natural pine or cedar litter, such as Nature's Earth Feline Pine (link at bottom of page) is generally more effective with the skunk than clay and newspaper based litters. Hard as you may try, some skunks, much like some cats, will never use a litter box. In these instances you can let your skunk outside to do their business, always under supervision.

What does a skunk eat? Feeding a skunk can prove to be a bit of a conundrum. Always start with the food recommended by the breeder or shelter, then gradually switch them to a diet recommended by your exotic pet veterinarian. Pet skunks do not need to eat the same diet as wild skunks, and it is very easy to overfeed a skunk. You can feed your skunk dog or cat food IF you are very careful in supplementing their diet with extra calcium and other minerals as recommended by your vet, because of the special dietary needs of skunks dog and cat food is not recommended. The best choice is a commercially prepared skunk diet which can be found at pet stores, veterinarian offices and online. You can also create your skunk's diet from fresh vegetables, fruits, meats and some dairy products, ask your vet for the best recipe for your individual pet's needs. Your pet skunk will most likely forage your house and yard for insects and small animals, which is natural but needs to be controlled. If your skunk forages in your yard do not use pesticides, herbicides or any type of poison in the area where they search for food. In addition to the right type of food, always have a supply of fresh water for your skunk.

Before you buy a skunk there are some drawbacks to ownership that you must be ready to deal with. Skunks stink! Actually, skunks don't smell any worse than your average dog or cat. When a skunk is startled they release a scent from glands in their hindquarters. This scent is quite distinctive, no doubt you've smelled it before. Not all skunks are the same, the typical skunk has to be pretty rattled to spray however there are those individuals that seem to need no reason at all to spray you and all of your belongings. Nature's Miracle makes a skunk remover spray that is quite effective, though it seems nothing but time can fully remove the skunk scent. Some breeders will remove these scent glands before you purchase your skunk but this is not recommended. In some states gland removal is illegal, and it will leave your pet nearly defenseless if they are ever left to fend for themselves if the situation arises.

Skunks dig. Digging is a natural behavior in skunks. If you have potted plants inside they will dig in them. Skunks will dig your carpet up if their behavior is not immediately redirected every single time they start. To satisfy their digging needs you can allow them to dig outside under supervision. To protect your home while you are out you can crate train your baby skunk much as you would a puppy, or enclose the skunk in a tiled or unfinished room for short periods of time.

Skunks tend to get lost easily. When allowing your pet outside it's imperative that the skunk remain in a fenced area or on a leash. Skunks don't appear to have the same ability as cats and dogs to find their way home. Your neighbors may not welcome your pet and assume he is a stray and trap him. Skunks can be leash trained and many enjoy being walked outside, your best bet is to start with a baby skunk. Always outfit your skunk with a collar and name tag in the event he becomes lost.

Skunks should not be brought into a home with animals that hunt mammals, such as some breeds or dogs. Cats, dogs and skunks can get along but it all depends on the temperament of each individual. Always introduce new animals to each other slowly and carefully, the same way you would introduce dogs and cat to each other.

Skunks make wonderful, loyal pets and are worth investigating when a dog or cat just isn't what you are looking for!