How to Groom a Pet Fox

Foxes groom themselves well, but grooming can provide you with important bonding time if your fox enjoys it. It is not hard to do—if you can groom a dog or a cat, you can groom a fox!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dog or cat brush
• Pet nail clippers
• Mild soap

1. Realize that red, silver and arctic foxes have a strong odor. Although this odor can be prevented by removal of the scent glands, this procedure will negatively affect your fox’s health. If you have this type of fox, accept your pet’s natural odor.
2. Get your fox used to grooming. Hand raised foxes should already be used to human contact and basic brushing. However, they may still be skittish. Start by petting your fox gently, and then running the brush over her fur just as gently.
3. Brush vigorously once your pet fox is used to it. Your pet will get a good massage from this type of brushing. If she’s an indoor pet, such as a fennec fox, this also helps keep your house clean of fox fur.
4. Bathe your fox if absolutely necessary. Generally, a red, silver or arctic fox does not need bathing, though some will enjoy playing in water. Because fennecs often live indoors, you may occasionally need to bathe your pet fennec fox if she gets an unpleasant odor. Use warm water and mild soap, and keep her warm until she is completely dry.
5. Trim your fox’s nails with a standard pet nail trimmer if his nails get too long. Be sure not to cut the quick of the nail, which will cause pain and bleeding for your fox. Outdoor foxes will probably not have nail problems.

Tips & Warnings

• Start a regular grooming schedule with your fox to help foster bonding.
• If your pet fox is especially averse to grooming, try to find other ways to bond as you gradually get her used to brushing.
• If a fox feels threatened or irritated by brushing, he may bite you. When your fox has had enough, end your grooming session. Next time, try to end before it becomes a negative experience.