Louisiana Prohibits Pet Skunks Despite Growing Online Interest

If you've ever considered owning a skunk as a pet, and you live in Louisiana, we've got bad news.

According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the state does not offer licenses to own skunks. Now if we're talking about Shreveport specifically, it's even more clear that you can't own a skunk as a pet. The Shreveport law is pretty specific, and names skunks specifically.

Regulations against skunk ownership actually go against a growing online trend in domesticated skunks. Which has been fueled by influencers, communities, and resources highlighting their potential as companion animals.

Skunks are members of the weasel family, and are omnivorous mammals. They're typically found in the wild across North America. While they possess a notorious defense mechanism...the ability to spray a pungent odor from their anal glands...some online proponents of pet skunks advocate for the removal of these glands. This act renders the animals less problematic.

Advocates argue that skunks, when de-scented, can be sociable and playful pets. They typically grow to lengths of 20 to 31 inches and weigh approximately 15 pounds, exhibiting characteristics similar to domesticated cats in terms of curiosity and activity levels. However, they require significant enrichment and supervision, as they are prone to exploring and manipulating their environment, including opening cabinets and drawers.

Despite these claims, Louisiana maintains its stance against pet skunks. The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries cites concerns regarding public safety and the preservation of native wildlife as primary reasons for the prohibition. Skunks are considered wild animals, and their unpredictable behavior, regardless of de-scenting, presents potential risks.

Online resources, such as Skunk Haven and The Spruce Pets provide information on the care and legality of pet skunks in various jurisdictions, highlighting the disparity between states. In Louisiana, the existing regulations remain firm, preventing residents from legally owning these animals, especially in Shreveport.