NONDESCRIPT ANIMALS AS PETS.
[To THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR."] Sfu,—In an extremely interesting article on "Nondescript Animals" in the Spectator of July 6th I notice the statement that the kinkajou is obviously almost the most desirable of possible pets which the world contains. This animal is certainly interesting, and, when in a good humour, very lovable; but, having enjoyed an intimate acquaintance with one, I cannot recommend it as a pet for the ordinary mortal. Unless it is continually shut up in a cage, in which case it is useless as a pet, the animal must be let out every day, and then the trouble begins. When loose in a room it cannot be left to itself like a dog or cat, as it insists on being played with. Its, idea of play is to bite and scratch gently, or to run about the tables, &c., and upset all the ornaments it can. It can be taught to run after you, but as it can run on the flat as fast as a man, and can get downstairs a good deal faster than any one I know, the play is exhausting ; while it generally tries to bite and scratch you in play when it has caught you. It is passionately fond of flowers, fruit, and scent, and will cause any amount of destruction in the pursuit of those objects. The kinkajou certainly shows no fear, as it is partly a carnivorous animal ; but this has its drawbacks. It has a keen instinct for discovering who is afraid of it, and will rush after such and bite their ankles. Occasionally, it is subject to paroxysms of rage and attacks man furiously. It is extraordinarily tough and strong for its size, and its sharp canine teeth inflict great wounds, while it clings on with its tail and four legs. I believe it would be able to kill an old or infirm person in a short time without warning. It makes such a noise tumbling about its cage at night that even in neighbouring rooms sleep is at times interfered with. As it is crepuscular in its habits it must be played with in the evening, but it requires food and attention at other times. For any one who has much leisure, a tough skin, a large space with nothing breakable in it, and no other pet likely to be killed by it, the kinkajou will prove an interesting acquisi- tion. Its almost human ways (when in a good temper), great activity, and attractive form may make up for its many draw- backs. To the ordinary household it is, I venture to think, quite unsuited. The kinkajou will never become a friend, and not always an acquaintance. I only hope by writing this letter to save many happy homes from being broken up by a
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