If you have come this far, the answer is probably yes! Raccoons are highly intelligent, playful, and affectionate pets, offering a unique and rewarding experience for owners who enjoy their distinct personalities and behaviors. Their curiosity and ability to bond with humans create strong companionship, while their need for mental and physical stimulation makes them both fun and engaging to care for. Owning a raccoon also provides an educational opportunity, allowing for a deeper understanding of wildlife and offering a great conversation starter due to their rarity as pets.

Raccoon ownership is legal in the following states, though regulations may vary, and permits may be required:

Oklahoma, Florida, Arkansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Nebraska, Indiana, Maine, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Texas, Michigan, and Delaware.

In many of these states, specific wildlife permits or licenses may be required, and there could be additional regulations regarding the care and sale of raccoons. Always check local and state laws to confirm the latest legal requirements for your baby raccoon.

Raccoons are considered fairly clean animals and will use the same spot to go to the bathroom, away from where they eat and sleep. This spot is called a "latrine site". They can be litterbox trained with enough patience and rewards. Keep in mind that raccoons are not as consistent as cats, and even well-trained raccoons may still have occasional accidents, so patience is key.

Pet raccoons need a balanced diet similar to their wild diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, insects, and lean meats like chicken or fish. High-quality commercial raccoon food can also provide necessary protein. To satisfy their natural foraging instincts, hiding treats around their environment is beneficial. Avoid feeding raccoons processed foods, sugary snacks, and toxic items like chocolate and onions.