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    Skunks are small mammals that are best known for their ability to spray a liquid that comes along with a foul odor. However, skunks can make great pets for the right owners. They are small, friendly and insanely cute. Think Flower from the Disney's "Bambi." But along with owning a skunk comes a great deal of responsibility. Click through to learn some interesting skunk facts.

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    SPRAY ME NOT

    When skunks spray, the smell is putrid and lingering. It is very unpleasant to be sprayed by a skunk, and it can even make breathing difficult. However, skunks will most likely only spray when they feel threatened. Plus, pet skunks typically get their scent-emitting glands removed when they are 4 to 8 weeks old.  (Skunks As Pets)

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    BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY

    If you're interested in owning a skunk, it is crucial to make sure you can legally have one in the state where you reside. You could need a permit. (Skunk Haven)

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    HIGH MAINTENANCE CUTIES

    Skunks are not low-maintenance. They require a great deal of attention and play from their owners. However, skunks are able to be potty trained with the persistent use of litter. (Exotic Pets)

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    DON'T LET MY SIZE FOOL YOU

    For their size, skunks are particularly strong. They can get inside or behind almost anything in a house if they wish. (Skunk Info)

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    SLEEP ALL DAY, PARTY ALL NIGHT

    Skunks are crepuscular animals. This means that they are most active during dawn or dusk. If you have a pet skunk, it can be trained to sleep during the night and be active during the day. (PBS)

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    AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE SKUNK DOCTOR AWAY

    Skunks mostly feast on insects. They are actually quite beneficial to have around because the insects they eat happen to be pests to humans. Skunks also enjoy wild fruits, apples, corn and other plants. (Please Be Kind)

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    WHAT'S YOUR SKUNK STYLE?

    Like other animals, skunks come in a variety of different colors and sizes. Most pet skunks range from a classic black and white to even spotted lavender and white. Skunks that are spotted are smaller than striped skunks. Striped skunks can be up to 14 pounds, while spotted skunks average to one to three pounds. (Exotic Pets)

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    RABIES NO MORE

    In the wild, skunks can contract rabies just like other species. A major sign of rabies is foaming at the mouth. However, not all skunks carry rabies. They have been raised in captivity for over 200 years, where the chances of them having rabies is slim. Always make sure that you get your skunk from a reliable source. (Pet Place)

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    CAN YOU DIG IT?

    Skunks love to dig. They will dig away at corners, furniture, and closed doors. They can even find spots on the carpet where there was once food, and they will dig. Be aware that if you have nice furniture and a pet skunk, the furniture could be destroyed. (Skunk Haven)

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