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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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
I am very experienced in working with child have 3 grown kids and worked with small children all my life. Also worked in wildlife mostly monkeys and ferrets. I'm 35 yrs old and want a new companion thinking monkey will b perfect!
My boyfriend is such an animale love he has saved so many animals and he's been wanting a monkey for ever. He has the biggest heart ever.looking to buy him one for his birthday in March
Look to grave and monkey not to wild okay one that just began born I don't and grolla trust me I can tell if it's wrong if none return the I know for sure the zoo can have it. Baby monkey 🐒.only
I,My 43-year-old wife, 11-year-old son, 77-year-old mother, 5-year-old female beagle (not completely sure about the beagle's "vote" on the subject) and I (52-year-old male) are interested in acquiring a young, female, Capuchin monkey for a pet (and/or companion). I have been doing research on the subject for the past several months, and now seems to be a good time to "make it happen." Also, considering that my dad passed away this past August, my mom has been very lonely since. I'm neither sure of the exact date when we would like add "her" to our family, nor the price we would feel comfortable paying to do so. I'm thinking the end of May//early June would be a good time, since my son would be finishing out his school year (5th grade). Again, the price would be (somewhat) negotiable. From everything I've read about Capuchins, they are (typically) socially active if you get them young enough. Our beagle is more timid than anything else, regarding how she would relate to a Monkey.
Monkeys require alot of attention and love.I love my monkey and wouldn't take a million dollars for him.I have had him for 25 yrs.and he is truly my baby.He has his own room and a huge outside pen to play in.If you want a monkey,don't let anyone tell you not to get one.Just know they are alot of work.We ended up with nine and loved them all.
This monkey is very playful and loves the backyard he enjoys jumping on the trampoline and playing in the playhouse espically climbing the small rock wall and the monkey bars
Posted by: someone with common sense in the books, MO.
Posted: September 30th, 2014 09:09PM
Species: all
Age: any
@ smartenough to know wild... whereu live suits you... think back in time, there was a point when a cat, dog, bird, fish, etc. Wasnt thought of as pets, but wild animals. So someone liking monkeys and wanting to own is no different than it was back then. So instead of posting ignorant, uneducated statements... y dont you go read up on something educational that interests you and let monkey lovers do the same... THANK YOU and have a wonderful day
Posted by: smartenough to know wild animals dont make pets in moronland, AL.
Posted: July 14th, 2014 08:07PM
Species: all
Age: 2
Monkey's are not pets and belong in their own habitat. There is much proof of how they go crazy being kept as a pet and go crazy and become withdrawn and overly nasty why don't you try an elephant that would be nice too cause their just so cute until they grow up
I don't have a monkey but my sisters friend in her class does and I was wondering is there a monkey for free that would make my sister so happy so if there is that would be great
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