How Much Does a Kinkajou Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

The kinkajou, also known as the honey bear or a nightwalker, is a small mammal native to the South American. It is a nocturnal tree dweller and is very active at night.

As a domesticated, exotic pet, it usually well-tempered, docile and quiet, but it can be occasionally aggressive. Specifically, it can be provoked by loud noises or quick movements.

Our baby Kinkajou, Digit by MaRu180, on Flickr
Our baby Kinkajou, Digit” (CC BY 2.0) by MaRu180

How much does it cost to buy a kinkajou?

On average, the price of a baby kinkajou is around $700 to $3,500, and this price will depend on the breeder, the quality, age and gender.

According to some of the classified ads we found on exoticanimalsforsale.net, for example, most prices ranged anywhere from $400 to as much as $3,000.

This JuliesJungle.com care sheet says the kinkajou on its own can cost about $2,000, but prices are subject to change without notice.

Kinkajou overviw

Kinkajous can come in various sizes as there are seven subspecies.  The larger varieties can weigh up to 18 pounds and measure 25 inches in length.  They will mature at 18 to 30 months, with the female going into heat every three months when they reach 30 months old.  They will give birth to one to two cubs per year.

Generally, its inner fur coat is gray, and it has small ears that accompany its large eyes. Its feet tends to be short, with five clawed toes on every foot for climbing trees.  A kinkajou has a prehensile tail which allows them to hang from tree branches in the wild. These fully-prehensile grasping tails can be used as an extra “hand” whenever the animal is climbing. Kinkajous climb trees in a similar manner to monkeys, making use of both claws on their feet plus their tails, which act as the fifth hand. The tail can be nearly as long as the body and it is also used for balancing when moving from one tree branch to another.

It can live in captivity for decades, usually around 20 to 25 years, but they are known to be as old as 40.

What are the extra costs?

A cage/habitat, at least 20 square feet, constructed of a solid material to prevent damage to their feet and a securable lock, can cost hundreds, depending on the size and construction material.  These cages, when built, should withstand any climbing and digging, and if a fence is being built around the cage, it must, at a minimum, have buried wire at a 90-degree angle to prevent their escape.  Owners recommend an outdoor enclosure with a roof and a limited indoor area with natural lighting available.  Inside these cages should include ledges, shelves, ropes for climbing, and a plastic container to lounge in.

A kinkajou will feed on fruits, vegetables and monkey biscuits.  Treats, given from time to time, can include raisins, graham crackers or dates.  Be prepared to spend a few dollars per day depending on the type of food used.  Owners commonly feed their kinkajous bananas, papayas, mangoes, melons, kiwis, grapes, pineapple, pomegranates and figs.

Spay and neutering costs can cost about $200.

Factor in the routine vet care and unexpected vet visits, especially when younger.  A kinkajou must be vaccinated annually from various diseases such as hepatitis, parvo and canine distemper.  They will also need routine deworming sessions.  Their non-retractable claws also need to be trimmed and depending on your preference, this can be done via the vet or on your own if you’re comfortable with it.

Inside the cage, toys are also recommended to keep them interested.  This can include toys with holes, ropes or shelves.

In some states, you may need special permits to own a kinkajou.  These permits can cost up to $200 per year.

Shipping fees may apply for those who live out of state and buy from a breeder online.

JandaExotics.com says they are very social and will enjoy the company of another kinkajou.  While it’s up to you, it doesn’t hurt to budget for another to keep it company while away.

Tips to know:

The Kinkajou marks its territory using scent glands near its mouth, throat, and belly. This animal will usually forage alone or in smaller groups, and it is more social in other settings.

Kinkajous are nocturnal tree dwellers. In the wild, they tend to spend most of their time in the tree canopy of rainforests. Kinkajous inhabit the tropical forests of South and Central America. It is a member of the genus Procyonidae which puts it together with the raccoon. As a species, Kinkajous are also related to olingos, ringtails and coatis.

If hand-raised from a young age, kinkajous can be quite tame, but you should remember that they are wild animals. Kinkajous are quite active and curious. Since they are nocturnal, they are most active starting in the late evening.

In the wild, the kinkajou will primarily feed on fruit and nectar. If properly bottle-fed and handled, these animals are very sweet and good-natured. Even when they bonded to their owners, they will go from one person to another without hesitation, interacting freely with strangers as if they were its owner.

Kinkajous are not endangered and are rarely seen by humans when in the wild, most likely owing to the fact that they are nocturnal. They are still listed under the IUCN-threatened animals list as “least concern,” even though their numbers are declining. Their wild populations are decreasing due to habitat destruction through human disturbance and deforestation, hunting, as well as the illegal pet trade.

When adopting, always make sure you work with an experienced breeder and a USDA licensed facility.

Unlike monkeys, a kinkajou doesn’t produce an unfriendly odor and will not need routine baths.

As they bond well, they will not re-home well if you do decide to give one up for adoption.  With that being said, make sure you’re able to make the commitment.

They do get along with other pets as long as introduced at a young age.  Children, however, may not play well as they can bite or scratch in some circumstances, which, unfortunately, can cause potential problems.

Most are trained to use the litter box, similar to a cat.  If not trained or they don’t have access to a litter box, then they will use the bathroom in higher places.


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