Fennec-FAQs

There are so many things to learn about fennec foxes in general and keeping
them in captivity. We will never know everything of course, but here is
included a number of frequently asked questions about fennecs.....it's a work in
progress right now. If you have any questions you'd like to have included here,
just e-mail us!

1. Male or Female?

As every kit is different, there really is no particular gender better over the other, it's really a matter
of personal choice. Some people work better with males or females. Many people chose males as
pets or education animals, though there are quite a number of females as pets as well.
The males should be neutered between 6 months and one year of age if they are to be kept as
education animals or pets. Once they reach between 2 and 3 years of age, their hormones kick in
and they tend to become unhappy being handled so much. The females actually get friendlier when
they are in heat or pregnant, and do not have a messy cycle. They do not need to be spayed.

2. Do they get along with other animals?

For the most part, the answer is yes. Generally the fennec wants to play with anyone & anything in
sight whether big or small. They are known to get along with other animals such as cats, dogs,
potbelly pigs and more; the personality of the individuals is most important. They should not be
allowed to play with birds (they will eat them), and some small critters like chinchillas or hamsters
may spark a predator instinct in them. We personally advise extreme caution when allowing a
fennec to interact with large dogs, especially depending on the breed. We have heard some horror
stories about the little fennec that ran in front of the large dog and was grabbed, its neck snapped.
They are so small and fast that they can set off a instinctual response for the larger animal. Always
use supervision....and keep the camera handy!

3. Can they be litter trained?

To a point, but never 100%. Some are better than others. We used to work on litter training the kits
before going to their new homes. Though they might do very well here, going to a new place seems
to change that. Plus, they enjoyed sleeping in their litter box and messing in their bed! As more
people don't want a litter box in their home, we've used newspaper in the bottom of their pen as
they grow up. They go on this readily and it's easy to change. Being consistent is key. Allowing
them access to their pen as they play allows them to return to it to go. Just be careful when sitting
on the living room floor reading the Sunday funnies with the fennec playing nearby! They cannot be
let outside to go as you would a dog, they cannot be put out in the yard to go that way. Usually you'll
find that the fennec will leave a small "cigar" somewhere, rather than a puddle...much easier to
clean up when necessary. If a litter-box trained animal is a must, a fennec is not for you!

4. Is shipping stressful for the kit?

Undoubtedly, the changes in the routine & the new sounds and smells would be a bit scary for
anyone! We do our best to make sure the crate is comfortable & secure; and we only ship with
Continental Airlines....well known for their commitment to animal welfare during shipping. Shipping
is also the quickest way for the fennec to reach their new home, and much less stressful overall
than a cross country car ride that can take several days. They soon settle down happily in their new
home. Click here for more shipping information

5. How can I get on a waiting list?

We have a questionnaire form now, so please fill it out and send it to us, or copy & paste in an
e-mail. We generally have a waiting list, but it is always a good idea to send in your information if you
are interested. There is no obligation, nor do we ever take deposits in advance! Click here for the
questionnaire form.

6. Are they legal in California?

Fennec foxes are illegal as pets in California and there are no permits issued for exotic pets. We
have a Restricted Species Breeding Permit as well as a USDA license to breed them here. Below are
the regulations for California....

Click here: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/licensing/pdffiles/fg1518.pdf
Click here: CA State Law Governing Private Possession of Exotic Animals

7. What about legality in other states?

Another site to look up regarding laws in other states:

Click here: Summary of State Laws Relating to Private Possession of Exotic Animals

You can call the States' veterinary office as well as the State Fish & Wildlife offices for
further information.

Exotic Endeavors does not sell animals to anyone in states where they are illegal to
keep, and we personally check all state & local laws. We are happy to help provide any
information necessary for proper permit requirements such as in the case of import
permits. We also keep excellent records on every animal; this includes pedigree, birth
dates, shipping records, health certificates, USDA transport paperwork, permits and
more.