Fennec Fox Cost: 7 Reasons They Are So Expensive

With time more and more people have started keeping fennec foxes as pets. But how much does a fennec fox cost? 

How much does a fennec fox cost?

Fennec foxes are exotic animals that cost around $2500 each. Besides being exotic, there are other reasons why they are so expensive. First, they aren’t readily available and must be imported. Moreover, they are high-maintenance pets with unique care requirements. 

Having owned several fennec foxes, we have taken it upon ourselves to educate you on why fennec foxes are so expensive. 

Reasons Fennec Foxes Are Expensive 

They Are Exotic 

When it comes to purchasing a pet fennec fox, be prepared to fork over some serious cash. One of the reasons they are so expensive is simply because they are considered exotic animals. 

This means they aren’t readily available in pet stores and often have to be imported from other countries, driving up costs. 

However, they also require specialized care and a unique diet, which can add additional expenses for prospective owners. 

It’s important to carefully consider the financial and emotional commitment involved in owning a fennec fox before deciding to bring one into your home. They may be cute and fluffy, but they shouldn’t be treated as another trendy accessory.

Regular Veterinary Fees

When choosing a pet, the fennec fox may seem quite a unique and appealing option. However, potential owners should be aware that regular veterinary fees can add up quickly and contribute to the already high cost of owning one of these animals. 

Fennec foxes require regular check-ups and vaccinations just like any other domestic pet, but they also have specific dietary needs and possible health concerns related to their wild ancestry. 

In addition, regular specialist vet visits may be necessary to monitor for issues such as dental abnormalities or diseases specific to their species. 

So, while owning a fennec fox may seem exciting and exotic, potential owners should consider how they will budget for their long-term care before committing.

Unique Housing Requirements 

Another reason why fennec foxes are considered a high-priced exotic pet is because of their unique housing requirements. 

Unlike dogs or cats, these desert-dwelling animals have specific temperature and humidity needs that must be met for them to thrive. Not only do they require a temperature-controlled environment, but they also need ample room to dig and burrow. 

In fact, many experts recommend against housing them in traditional cages, instead recommending that they have an outside area with at least 6 feet of digging space and plenty of shade. 

These specialized housing needs result in significant financial costs for potential owners, contributing to the higher price tag on fennec foxes. 

Due to their unique housing requirements, owning a fennec fox is not a decision to be made lightly. It’s important for potential owners to carefully consider the cost and commitment before bringing one into their home.

Climbing Equipment, Litter Boxes, and Toys 

Many people may be surprised to learn that owning a fennec fox can be costly, with the initial purchase price being just the tip of the iceberg. 

One factor adding to these expenses is the fact that these small foxes require litter boxes and toys to prevent boredom and promote exercise. In addition, they also often need climbing equipment to fulfill their natural instinct to climb and keep themselves mentally stimulated. 

While these items may seem like minor additions, they can quickly add up costs for a fennec fox owner. 

So before bringing one of these adorable creatures into your home, consider the ongoing expenses that come with proper care.

They Only Breed Once a Year

Owning a fennec fox as a pet is a unique yet expensive privilege. One of the reasons for their high price tag is their breeding habits. 

Unlike many other species, they only have one breeding season per year. This means that breeders have a limited window of opportunity to produce new fennec foxes, resulting in less supply and higher demand. 

In addition, they also tend to have a smaller litter with fewer offspring compared to other fox species. 

These factors all contribute to the rarity and cost of owning a fennec fox as a pet. However, it’s important to remember that they are still wild animals and require specialized care, which can also contribute to the expenses involved in ownership. 

Ultimately, potential owners should consider the challenges and responsibilities before making such a significant financial investment in a fennec fox.

Unique Dietary Requirements 

While they may be adorable, potential owners should think twice before bringing one into their homes. Fennec foxes are known for having unique dietary requirements that can make them expensive to care for. 

These desert-dwelling creatures have evolved to survive on a diet largely composed of insects and small vertebrates rather than the usual fruits and seeds that many domesticated animals eat. 

Meeting their dietary needs often requires purchasing specialized foods from exotic pet stores, which can add up quickly over time. 

In addition, keeping a varied diet can also be difficult and may require consulting with experts in exotic animal care or seeking out live prey such as crickets or rodents. 

It’s important to do thorough research before committing to owning any unique pet – financial considerations are just one aspect of providing proper care. 

In the case of the fennec fox, their exotic diet adds an extra layer of difficulty and expense for potential owners to consider.

Handful of Breeders 

The fennec fox is a popular exotic pet known for its adorable oversized ears and playful demeanor. 

However, there are only a handful of licensed breeders for this species. This lack of supply, combined with the high demand for these furry companions, results in the fennec fox being one of the most expensive exotic pets available. 

In fact, prices can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Additionally, buyers must also be prepared to invest in ongoing care costs and meet strict state regulations. 

So while owning a fennec fox may seem glamorous, it’s important to carefully consider all factors before making such a significant financial commitment.

Licensing, Permits, And Inspections

If you are considering acquiring a fennec fox as a pet, be prepared to go through several licensing, permits, and inspections, which don’t come cheap. First, you must obtain the necessary state or local government licensing. 

Then, you may also have to acquire special Permits in order to legally keep a fennec fox as a pet. Finally, your living arrangements and care for the fox may also be subject to Inspections by government officials. 

These steps are in place to ensure the health and safety of both the fennec fox and its owner. So before taking the plunge and adding a fennec fox to your household, make sure you know what Licensing, Permits, And Inspections may be required.

Key Takeaways 

• First, there is limited breeding, as the majority of their population exists in the wild. This means that those who have captive-bred fennecs are able to demand a higher price for them. 
• In addition, specialized care is required for fennecs as they are a unique domesticated species and require specific diets and housing. 
• Furthermore, shipping fees can also be high due to the animal’s delicate nature and special paperwork that may need to be filed. 
• Finally, since there is a growing demand for exotic pets like fennecs, breeders can charge premium prices for them.