Various species of monkeys, ranging in size from about one to three feet tall, are kept as pets. Chosen for their intelligence and companionship, it is for these characteristics that a primate is a both challenging and rewarding pet.
Typical costs:
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.
Additional costs:
Cage. Ready-made cages[1] 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[2] . Download a fact sheet on primate diets from the Merck Veterinary Manual by visiting PetMonkeyInfo.com[3] . 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.
Shopping for a pet monkey:
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[4]
Primate ownership is controversial. Several states ban owning a pet primate, including most recently Illinois[5] . 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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Want one because my children but my God daughter wants really bad but I am on a fixed income and can not afford it's of money...so if anyone would love a monkey to have a loving and nurturing family please contact me ASAP.
I've never had a monkey. Too expensive.. I have cancer & want a companion. If any 1 has or finds a monkey that's cheap please message me ANYTIME please.
Posted by: Sadie Myers Calhoun in Philadelphia, PA.
Posted: October 29th, 2020 03:10PM
Species: Girl
Age: 2
I love to adopted monkey and raise her as she my baby my Aunt let me take care her one I treated him he were baby so I will love to adopted and raise her.
I'm looking to adopt a baby monkey into our home. My family has always wanted one and we're finally finically stable to get one. Please if anyone knows anyone who's selling one please contact me
Ive always wanted a baby monkey. I love all animals. I treat them as if they were my family. I can't have children so i would love to buy a monkey and raise it as if it was my child.
Any small monkey. I have always wanted one.I know it is not going to be an easy pet like a cat dog. But I'm up for this challenge.I am a very easy going person and am excited to be a monkey mom.please get back to me .Thank you mrs. Jackson.
My daughter has been wanting a monkey since she was 6 she’s almost a teen and I really wanna get her one for her 13 birthday! We just want a nice friendly monkey so if anyone can reach out it would be great you can reach me at (302) 510-5266 and message me!
I just adore monkeys all kids I love them all I want one because my children are grown and I really want a monkey because I want to live and take care of it it’s somewhat like having a new born baby and that’s exactly what I need and want I will be the best monkey mom ever!!
Ok... All of you who are posting how you want a "free monkey"? Please, Stop! If you can't afford to "buy" one, then there's no way you'll ever be able to afford to maintain one. I swear to god, it's like none of you are listening (or comprehending) the videos, stories and advice that's given by others! So until you become financially responsible for your own self (and maybe your own children) Do the right thing and get a goldfish or two. Thank me later!
i have always wanted a baby monkey, not just because it would be super cool to have one but to fulfill the dreams of a child and find a lifelong best friend:).
I have owned several breeds of small monkeys over the years I have kept all of them till natural life was up I had one that lived till it was almost thirty y/o I have had them from brand new and older Monkeys don't let anybody tell you they are a pet no they are a multi decade obligation and have loved every minute of it as far as how much does it cost to maintain one me and my wife raised 3 boys and I would say with food and all of the anslary expenses it costs about fifty thousand dollars over a eighteen to twenty five year life and the permits and continuing education hrs per year that is a nother deal if you want a monkey and have to think about the expenses then it's not for you and the wildlife inspections that's a nother thing I have all the permits and state required training all that said I am looking for a old world monkey
I have a huge anxiety problem and I can’t have kids because of my medical conditions I monkey to me will be a blessing that I will always be thankful for I hope that if u own a monkey and read this find out how much love that pet can bring to my life and the monkey will defined be in good hands guaranteed
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