Can You Keep A Possum As A Pet?

Possums are undeniably cute, with their big eyes, fluffy tails, and curious nature. It’s no wonder some people wonder if they can keep a possum as a pet. While the idea might seem appealing, possums are wild animals with very specific needs—and keeping one at home comes with serious legal and welfare considerations.

In Australia, where possums are native and protected, it’s important to understand that these animals are not domesticated pets. Attempting to keep one can cause stress and harm to the animal, create health risks for humans, and even result in legal penalties.

In this guide, we’ll explore why possums don’t make suitable pets, what the law says, and safer, ethical alternatives for enjoying these iconic marsupials in your backyard.

Legal Status of Possums in Australia

In Australia, possums are classified as protected native wildlife under state and territory laws. This means you cannot legally capture, keep, or sell a possum as a pet without the appropriate wildlife license.

Key Points:

• Protected Species: Both brushtail and ringtail possums are protected by legislation across Australia.


• Illegal to Keep: It’s against the law to remove a possum from the wild and attempt to domesticate it.


• Licenses Are Rare: Licenses are usually granted only to wildlife carers, zoos, or rehabilitation organisations—not private pet owners.


• Penalties: Heavy fines and legal consequences apply if you’re caught keeping a possum without authorisation.

The bottom line? While they might look like cuddly companions, possums are legally recognised as wild animals, not pets.

Natural Behaviour of Possums

Even if it were legal to keep a possum, their natural behaviour makes them very unsuitable as pets. These animals have evolved to thrive in the wild, and replicating their environment in a home setting is nearly impossible.

1. Nocturnal Lifestyle

• Possums are active at night and sleep during the day.


• Their thumping, scratching, and foraging habits would disrupt a household’s routine.

2. Territorial Instincts

• Possums are highly territorial, often fighting to defend their space.


• Confinement in a cage or small enclosure would cause them extreme stress.

3. Climbing and Foraging Needs

• They are natural climbers and explorers, needing trees, space, and variety in their environment.


• Keeping them indoors deprives them of essential mental and physical stimulation.

4. Specialised Diet

• Possums eat a variety of leaves, flowers, fruits, and insects.


• Their diet is difficult to replicate at home, leading to malnutrition if not properly managed.

In short, possums have complex behaviours that make them fascinating in the wild—but challenging and unhappy in captivity.

Welfare Concerns

Attempting to keep a possum as a pet raises serious animal welfare issues. These wild animals are not adapted to domestic life, and confinement can lead to significant physical and psychological harm.

1. Stress and Anxiety

• Possums are easily stressed by human interaction, loud noises, and unfamiliar environments.


• Chronic stress can weaken their immune system, making them prone to illness.

2. Health Problems

• Incorrect diet can lead to malnutrition, obesity, or dental problems.


• Lack of exercise and natural foraging can cause physical deterioration.

3. Human Safety Risks

• Possums are not domesticated; they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened.


• They can also carry parasites or diseases transmissible to humans and pets.

Ultimately, a possum’s welfare is best served by leaving it in its natural habitat, where it can live a healthy, stress-free life.

Alternatives to Keeping Possums as Pets

If you love possums and want to enjoy their presence, there are many safe and ethical ways to do so without keeping them as pets.

1. Create a Possum-Friendly Garden

• Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers to provide natural food and shelter.


• Avoid using pesticides or harmful chemicals.

2. Install a Possum Box

• A nesting box in a tree can give possums a safe place to live, away from your roof.


• Allows you to observe their natural behaviour from a respectful distance.

3. Volunteer with a Wildlife Organisation

• Join a local wildlife rescue or rehabilitation group to learn how to care for injured or orphaned possums.


• This is the only legal and ethical way to get hands-on experience with native animals.

These alternatives allow you to support possum conservation while respecting their wild nature.

What to Do if You Find a Possum in Your Home

Sometimes, a possum might find its way into your roof or home. Instead of trying to keep it, it’s important to handle the situation humanely and legally.

1. Don’t Try to Catch It

• Possums can become defensive when cornered.


• Attempting to handle it yourself can be dangerous and illegal.

2. Seal Entry Points

• Identify how the possum is getting in (e.g., loose tiles, vents).


• Install a one-way door to let it out without allowing it back in.

3. Call a Licensed Professional

• Licensed wildlife handlers can safely remove possums and provide possum-proofing advice.


• They ensure the process is humane and compliant with local laws.

Respecting possums means helping them return to their natural environment, not keeping them as pets.

Conclusion

While possums may be cute and fascinating, they are not pets. Their protected status, natural behaviours, and complex welfare needs make them entirely unsuitable for domestic life.

Attempting to keep a possum is illegal, harmful to the animal, and risky for humans. Instead, the best way to show your appreciation for these native marsupials is to support them in the wild.

Create a possum-friendly garden, install a nesting box, or volunteer with a wildlife organisation. By choosing these ethical alternatives, you can help protect Australia’s unique wildlife and enjoy possums in a way that’s safe for everyone—especially the possums themselves.