Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep  – serpentanimal.com (2024)

Are you looking for a unique and exotic companion to bring into your home? Look no further than the world of pet monkeys. While it may seem like an unconventional choice, many people are finding joy and companionship in keeping these intelligent and fascinating creatures as pets. In this article, we will explore some of the best monkeys for pets that people can keep, delving into their personalities, care requirements, and the joys of forming a bond with these remarkable animals.

Are Monkeys Good Pets?

Monkeys may seem like cute and playful animals, but they are not suitable pets for most people. Monkeys require specialized care, a large amount of space, and a lot of attention. They can also be aggressive and unpredictable, posing a potential danger to their owners and others.

Keeping monkeys as pets can contribute to the illegal wildlife trade and exploit these smart animals. It’s better to support conservation efforts and ethical wildlife sanctuaries that care for monkeys in their natural habitats. Monkeys are best left in the wild or conservation facilities.

Can I Legally Own a Monkey as a Pet?

In some places, you can have a pet monkey, but there are rules to follow. You might need permits and have to meet certain standards for housing and care. You also have to follow local laws about owning exotic animals. Before getting a monkey, make sure you check the laws in your area to make sure you can take care of a monkey the right way.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep – serpentanimal.com (1)

Owning a pet monkey raises important ethical issues. Monkeys need a lot of care, including special food, fun things to do, and time with other monkeys. Before getting a monkey, it’s important to think about whether you can meet all these needs. Talking to people who know a lot about taking care of monkeys can help you understand what it’s really like to have one as a pet.

Best Monkeys For Pets

Before getting a pet monkey, make sure to learn about its needs and the rules in your area. Taking good care of a monkey means giving it the right food, home, friends, and medical help. Building a close relationship with your monkey can be great, but it takes hard work and focus to meet its special needs well. The list of best pet monkeys are given:

Tarsier

The tarsier, a unique and mysterious monkey breed, is gaining popularity as an exotic pet among adventurous animal enthusiasts. Known for its large eyes and remarkable ability to leap from tree to tree, the tarsier fascinates many with its distinctive characteristics and endearing behavior. As an increasing number of people seek non-traditional pets, the appeal of keeping a tarsier companion continues to grow.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep – serpentanimal.com (2)

Tamarin

The tamarin, with its small size and sociable nature, has captured the hearts of many pet owners seeking a more manageable primate companion. Renowned for their playful demeanor and high intelligence, tamarins have become sought-after pets for those who are dedicated to providing appropriate care and enrichment for these delightful creatures. With their charming personalities and striking appearance, tamarins are carving out their place in the world of pet monkeys.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep – serpentanimal.com (3)

Chimpanzee

chimpanzees possess remarkable intelligence and share 98% of their DNA with humans, they are not suitable as pets due to their complex social structures and strength. Keeping a chimpanzee as a pet is prohibited in many countries due to ethical concerns and potential dangers.

Squirrel Monkey

Squirrel monkeys are smaller in size, highly social creatures that thrive in groups. They are known for their playful nature and acrobatic abilities, making them captivating companions for those well-equipped to care for exotic animals. Prospective owners need to understand the specific needs and challenges inherent in caring for these monkeys before bringing them into their homes.

Macaque

The popularity of pet monkeys has grown in recent years, with a variety of monkey breeds being favored by enthusiasts. One such breed is the Macaque, known for its intelligence and social nature. These playful creatures form strong bonds with their human caretakers and are capable of learning complex tasks. Due to their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation, they require dedicated care and attention.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep – serpentanimal.com (4)

Capuchin

Another popular pet monkey breed is the Capuchin, recognized for its mischievous personality and expressive facial features. Capuchins have been featured in movies and television shows due to their trainability and ability to perform tricks. While they can be affectionate companions, they also exhibit strong independent traits, making them challenging pets for inexperienced owners.

Marmoset

When it comes to choosing the best monkey for a pet, the Marmoset often stands out as a top choice. These small primates are highly social animals, making them great companions for those looking for an interactive and entertaining pet. With their adorable faces and playful nature, Marmosets can bring endless joy and laughter into your home.

One of the key attractions of owning a Marmoset is their intelligence and ability to learn new tricks quickly. As natural problem solvers, these monkeys are constantly entertaining with their curiosity and clever antics. They form strong bonds with their human caregivers, creating a deep sense of companionship that many find incredibly rewarding.

Spider Monkey

Spider monkeys are known for their long, slender limbs and prehensile tails, making them adept at swinging from tree to tree with remarkable agility. Their clever and inquisitive nature makes them captivating companions for those looking to add a touch of wild charm to their homes. It’s important to consider the demanding care and space requirements these intelligent creatures need to thrive in a domestic environment.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep – serpentanimal.com (5)

Guenon

Guenons are a diverse group of monkeys with unique facial markings and colorful fur, which effortlessly captivate anyone who encounters them. Their energetic and active personalities make them a joyous addition to any household that can meet their mental stimulation needs. Nevertheless, it’s crucial for future potential owners of these elegant primates to thoroughly research the complexities of providing proper care before deciding on bringing one into their lives.

Should I Keep Any Monkey Breeds as a Pet?

Keeping monkey breeds as pets is not recommended for several reasons. Firstly, monkeys are wild animals, and keeping them in captivity can lead to stress and behavioral issues. They require a large amount of space, mental stimulation, and specialized care that most people are unable to provide in a domestic setting.

Many monkey pet breeds can carry zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to humans, posing a health risk. The exotic pet trade often involves unethical practices such as illegal poaching and smuggling of animals. It’s important to consider the welfare of these animals and support conservation efforts rather than contributing to their exploitation by keeping them as pets.

What States Are Monkeys Legal in?

Here are the states where owning a pet monkey is legal:

Alabama

Arkansas

Florida

Indiana

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Nevada,

New Hampshire,

New Mexico,

North Carolina

Pennsylvania

South Dakota

Texas

Wisconsin

Bonus: Ugly Monkeys In The World

In the world of primates, there are some monkeys that are often overlooked – the ugly monkeys. These monkeys may not look as nice as others, but they have their own special beauty. For example, the proboscis monkey has a big nose that makes it look funny. Even though it looks different, this monkey is important in its environment and should be appreciated.

Another example is the bald uakari, which has a red face and no hair on its head. Some people might think this monkey looks strange, but it shows how nature can be creative and adaptable. By accepting these unique creatures, we can see the variety of life on Earth and understand that beauty can be found in different ways. When you see an ugly monkey, take a moment to notice its special qualities and be amazed by the wonders of nature.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a monkey as a pet, there are several factors to consider. The best monkeys for pets are those who are well-suited to domestic life, have good temperaments, and can be properly cared for in terms of space, diet, and social needs.

It’s important to thoroughly research the specific species of monkey before deciding to ensure compatibility with your lifestyle and capabilities. Remember that keeping a monkey as a pet is a long-term commitment that requires dedication, patience, and ongoing education about their care. Ultimately, responsible ownership of any exotic animal is crucial for the welfare of the animal and the safety of its human caretakers.

FAQS

Are Monkeys Friendly Pets?

Monkeys may seem like cute and friendly pets, but in reality, they are not suitable for domestication. While some people may have positive experiences with pet monkeys, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals with complex social and behavioral needs. Keeping a monkey as a pet can be detrimental to their well-being and poses significant risks to both the owner and the general public.

How long A Monkey Can Live?

The lifespan of a monkey varies depending on the species. On average, monkeys in the wild can live anywhere from 10 to 40 years, with some species living even longer in captivity. For example, capuchin monkeys can live up to 45 years in captivity, while some larger species like the mandrill have been known to live up to 40 years.

What Do Pet Monkeys Eat?

Pet monkeys have a varied diet that typically includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and some protein sources. Fruits like bananas, apples, and berries are commonly enjoyed by pet monkeys, while vegetables such as carrots, leafy greens, and bell peppers provide essential nutrients. Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds can also be part of their diet. Pet monkeys may benefit from small amounts of lean protein sources like cooked chicken or eggs.

What Is The Best Monkey For A Pet?

Generally, smaller monkeys like marmosets or capuchins are often considered more manageable as pets due to their size and relative ease of care compared to larger species.

How Much Does A Pet Monkey Cost?

The cost of a pet monkey can vary widely depending on the species, age, and where you are purchasing from. On average, prices for pet monkeys can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. There are ongoing expenses to consider such as food, veterinary care, and housing requirements which can add up over time.

Best Monkeys For Pets That People Can Keep  – serpentanimal.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the most pet friendly monkey? ›

Capuchin monkeys are one of the more common primates in the pet trade. The black-capped, or tufted, capuchin appears to be the most common species kept.

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

Guenon. These 10-pound monkeys hail from the forests of sub-Saharan Africa and can live up to 25 years in captivity. Guenons are also high maintenance. There are almost two dozen species of guenons; the green monkey, vervet, and grivet are the most popular species kept as pets.

What is the calmest 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.

Which monkey is friendly to humans? ›

Bonobos, the friendly hippies of the primate world, are willing to help strangers even if there's nothing in it for them, Duke University researchers report November 7 in the journal Scientific Reports.

What monkey is not aggressive? ›

Bonobos are far less violent than chimpanzees, though, as lethal aggression is essentially nonexistent among bonobos while being not infrequent among chimpanzees.

What's the most aggressive monkey? ›

Spix's Night Monkey

Spix's night monkeys are also known for being one of the most aggressive New World monkeys, and also for being one of the few monochromat species (meaning they can not perceive any color besides black, white, and gray).

What are the most affectionate monkeys? ›

The macaque is one of the most affectionate monkeys on the planet; individuals maintain relationships by grooming one another, they communicate with grunts.

What is the smartest monkey to own? ›

Capuchins are the most intelligent New World monkeys – perhaps as intelligent as chimpanzees. They are noted for their ability to fashion and use tools. For instance, they have been observed Page 2 using rocks to crack open nuts.

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.

Which monkey is gentle? ›

The muriqui have a reputation as being one of the gentlest, most social of the primates—so much so that they've been dubbed the "hippy monkey."But even the sweetest of animals will turn murderous when deprived of basic needs—in this case, sex.

Which monkey is the easiest to train? ›

Capuchin monkeys are clever and easy to train. As a result, they are used to help people who are quadriplegics in many developed countries. They have also become popular pets and attractions for street entertainment, and are hunted for meat by local people.

What is the best temperament monkey? ›

With their enchanting eyes and playful nature, finger monkeys make delightful companions, always ready for an adventure or a cuddle. 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 variety of tricks.

Can a monkey be potty trained? ›

No. 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.

Which monkey are humans most like? ›

DNA: Comparing Humans and Chimps. Part of Hall of Human Origins. The chimpanzee and bonobo are humans' closest living relatives. These three species look alike in many ways, both in body and behavior.

How much does a pet monkey cost? ›

How Much Does a Pet Monkey Cost? In addition to the high costs of keeping a money as a pet, these animals are also expensive to purchase from reputable sources. Costs will vary based on the type of monkey. For example, capuchin monkeys might cost $5,000 to $7,000, while a chimpanzee might cost $50,000.

Are any monkeys safe as pets? ›

Most primatologists and primatological organizations are strongly against keeping primates as pets.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Horacio Brakus JD

Last Updated:

Views: 6044

Rating: 4 / 5 (71 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Horacio Brakus JD

Birthday: 1999-08-21

Address: Apt. 524 43384 Minnie Prairie, South Edda, MA 62804

Phone: +5931039998219

Job: Sales Strategist

Hobby: Sculling, Kitesurfing, Orienteering, Painting, Computer programming, Creative writing, Scuba diving

Introduction: My name is Horacio Brakus JD, I am a lively, splendid, jolly, vivacious, vast, cheerful, agreeable person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.