Pet Monkey Cost

• Monkeys cost between $4,000 and $8,000 each, depending on the monkey's age, rarity and temperament. Younger, more rare and friendlier monkeys tend to cost more.

• Monkeys are a labor-intensive pet choice. It's much like owning a toddler for 20 to 40 years, which is their life expectancy. Homes must be monkey-proofed and care taken when visitors are present in the home, as monkeys are curious, mischievous and, at times, aggressive.
• Most monkeys must be diapered or cleaned up after; fed, and played with often. Because of their curiosity, monkeys are considered endlessly entertaining and even thought provoking to their owners.
• Unless a person in the house will spend most of their time at home, primate experts recommend owning more than one, as monkeys are prone to depression if left alone even for short periods of time.
• Monkey owners say owning a monkey is a rewarding and enriching experience.
• Squirrel monkeys are easier to handle than other species because they are smaller and not as strong as, for example, the capuchin. On the other hand, squirrel monkeys are less friendly than their larger counterparts, which range from one to two feet tall. Other common pet monkeys include spider monkeys, marmosets and macaques.

• Cage. Ready-made cages can be purchased for between $650 to $900 for an indoor cage to $1,300 to $3,500 for an outdoor cage. Price depends on size and durability.
• Habitat. A monkey cage should include a nesting box, branches, blankets and toys. Such supplemental items cost between $100 and $200.
• Food. Most monkeys eat fruits and vegetables plus some animal protein, such as poultry, worms and insects. Fruits, vegetables and treats will cost about $25 per week for fruits, vegetables, and small insects.
• Supplement whole foods with a commercially made monkey chow, which is similar to a dry dog or cat food but is specialized for monkeys. A 20-pound bag can be purchased for around $30 and should last for six months. This commercial food can be purchased at AnimalWorldNetwork.com. Download a fact sheet on primate diets from the Merck Veterinary Manual by visiting PetMonkeyInfo.com. Click on the link located about halfway down the page.
• Veterinary care. Finding an appropriate vet may be a challenge. PrimateCare.com provides a list of exotic veterinarians that can be searched by zip code or state.
• Most primate owners choose to diaper their pets as they can't be easily or reliably house trained. A three to four month supply of diapers costs around $65.

• Select a breeder carefully, preferably one with a license from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
• For a list of questions to ask of breeders and what to look for when shopping for a pet monkey, visit PrimateCare.com
• Note that monkeys, like other exotic animals, are illegal in many cities and states, including California. Check local ordinances to see if monkey ownership is allowed and whether a permit is needed. Check the laws in different states using MonkeyMaddness.com's interactive map
• Primate ownership is controversial. Several states ban owning a pet primate, including most recently Illinois. This is partially because they can pass serious disease to humans, including Herpes B and tuberculosis. Take care to always get the recommended vaccinations for your pet and wash hands after handling it.

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