Before you go ahead and adopt a capybara, please reconsider your choices.

While they are extraordinary animals and are very tame, there are many drawbacks to keep a capybara as a pet.

First and foremost, in some places, it is illegal to keep them as pets. In Texas and Pennsylvania it is allowed to keep them, and in many other places, you would need to consult your local legislation to see if you need any special permit.

capybara, zoo

But legal formalities aside, make sure you understand what keeping a capybara as a pet involves.

As you already know, capybaras live in groups and are very social animals. Adopting a single capybara is not recommended.You would need to adopt at least two capybaras, but preferably more.

capybaras – family

Secondly, consider their size. They are huge. They are more than twice the size of a jackrabbit, they are the biggest rodents. Keeping at least two big rodents in good condition may be challenging and costly in itself, but besides that, they have special needs as well.

baby capybara sleeping

Because they are semi-aquatic creatures, you would have to provide them with plenty of water at all times, some owners choose to create special pools for them.

Capybaras also need plenty of space to roam around. It is not a wise idea to keep them indoors, as they will chew on everything they find. Your carpet and furniture won’t be safe with a capybara nearby.

If you still decide to get a capybara as a pet and provide them everything they need, make sure you have a nearby vet who can take care of the pet if needed. And make sure to fence the place where you keep them, as otherwise they will run away, as they are very fast animals.