Nutrition and behavior of fennec foxes (Vulpes zerda)

Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2009 May;12(2):299-312, ix. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2009.01.004.

Abstract

Fennec foxes make popular pets because of their small size, minimal odor, and highly social behaviors. They are kept in zoos for conservation and educational programs. The exotic animal practitioner is most likely to be presented with fennec foxes that are overweight because of inappropriate diets or excessive feeding. Clients attempting to hand-rear fennec foxes need advice about formula selection, amounts to feed, protocols for keeping pups warm, and weaning. This article provides information on social behavior, reproduction, and parental behavior, nutrition, and hand-rearing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animal Husbandry / methods*
  • Animal Husbandry / standards
  • Animal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena / physiology*
  • Animal Welfare
  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn / physiology
  • Behavior, Animal / physiology*
  • Female
  • Foxes / physiology*
  • Male
  • Nutritional Requirements*
  • Reproduction / physiology
  • Social Behavior