How to Play With a Pet Fox

Foxes are naturally curious and playful animals. Some people liken them to a cross between a dog and a cat, which shows up in their play. They are just as likely to fetch as to enjoy batting a toy along the ground.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Secure area for play
• Dog or cat toys
• Dog training book

Precautions of Playing With a Pet Fox

1. Play with your pet fox in a secure, enclosed area. Foxes are wild creatures and are prone to bolt when they are not secured. They also jump and climb, and may scale even a high fence. The safest play areas are indoors or in your fox’s outdoor pen.
2. Monitor your fox for stress or fear reactions when you play, such as raised hackles, a lowered tail or an attempt to withdraw from play. Remember that your fox is not fully domestic, even if hand raised. If your fox feels threatened during play, she might react by biting you or by attempting to escape.
3. Supervise older children if they play with your fox. Tell them how to interact with your pet fox so they won’t scare him. Young children should not play with a pet fox.
4. Introduce your pet fox to your other companion animals cautiously. Some foxes enjoy playing with cats, dogs and other animals—and vice versa. Consider the sizes and dispositions of your fox and your other pet when determining whether they make good playmates.

Games Foxes Enjoy

5. Romp with your pet fox! Romping and running with your fox can provide good exercise and bonding time for both you and your fox. Start slowly because you don’t want your fox to feel like you are chasing her. Watch her body language when she is playing by herself and try to replicate it in your own body.
6. Train your fox to fetch. Don’t be discouraged if your fox doesn’t immediately respond. For training tips, pick up a book on teaching dogs basic tricks. A fox will respond to many of the same techniques as a dog will.
7. Encourage your fox to chase balls or size-appropriate toys by throwing them to him. Foxes are naturally hunters, so many enjoy chasing toys. Your fox might not give the toy back, though!
8. Watch your pet fox to see how she plays on her own. She will teach you new games if you watch her carefully!

Tips & Warnings

• Try out new ways of playing each time you play with your fox. As wild creatures, the variety helps them use all of the skills that they would in the wild.
• Foxes should never be encouraged to play with prey animals such as rabbits and birds. Regardless of training, their natural hunting instinct will take over in a situation like this.