Short-Tailed Opossums (STOs) are fascinating, intelligent marsupials that make unique and rewarding pets. Known for their neat habits and inquisitive personalities, STOs thrive in a well-planned enclosure that meets their physical and behavioral needs. Because they’re excellent climbers and skilled escape artists, one of the most important aspects of care is selecting the right cage setup.
Here’s everything you need to know to create a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment for your Short-Tailed Opossum—along with some helpful Exotic Nutrition products that can make the process even easier.
Choosing a Secure and Suitable Enclosure
STOs may be small, but they’re energetic and love to explore. A 10-gallon or larger glass aquarium with a secure mesh lid can work well, but many owners prefer narrow-mesh wire cages that allow for better airflow and more vertical climbing space, such as our 4-Level Mansion Cage. Whatever you choose, ensure the enclosure is escape-proof, well-ventilated, and free from drafts.
Tip: Avoid cages with wide bars, as STOs can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces. Make sure all doors and latches close securely.
Bedding and Nesting Essentials
The base of the enclosure should be lined with safe, absorbent bedding. Good options include corn cob, CareFresh Complete Bedding, or aspen shavings (never use cedar or pine, as their oils can be harmful). Short-Tailed Opossums also need a cozy place to sleep, such as a small Chamber Box.
For nesting materials, try Exotic Nutrition’s All-Natural Nesting Material, which mimics what these animals would use in the wild. You can also provide shredded paper or cotton fiber to help them build a soft, warm nest.
Climbing, Enrichment & Exercise
Enrichment is essential to keep your STO physically active and mentally stimulated. In the wild, these nocturnal animals climb trees, hunt for insects, and seek out places to hide. You can replicate that natural behavior with a few simple accessories:
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Branches, ropes, and parrot ladders for climbing
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A solid-surface hamster wheel for exercise (avoid wire wheels that can cause injury, our Silent Runner 9 in is a great option)
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Clay flowerpots, PVC tubes, and hideouts for burrowing and hiding
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Fun toys that encourages foraging behavior and keeps your opossum entertained such as our Rolling Forage Cylinder
Providing a variety of textures, levels, and hideouts helps prevent boredom and promotes healthy activity.
Nutrition and Feeding Tools
Short-Tailed Opossums need a balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients. Exotic Nutrition’s Opossum Complete is specially formulated to meet their dietary needs, combining wholesome ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals.
For added variety, offer occasional treats like Bulk Dried Mealworms, which are high in protein and ideal for mimicking the natural diet of insectivores.
Serve their food and water in a durable, chew-resistant container like our Stainless Steel Feed Dish—perfect for preventing spills and keeping the cage cleaner.
Temperature and Humidity
STOs are native to warm climates and require a consistent temperature between 68°F and 88°F. Keep their enclosure in a draft-free area of your home, and use a heat source or heating pad if needed (just be sure they can move away from it if they get too warm). We carry a Heating Set which is perfect for keeping them warm, but not too hot. Humidity should stay above 50%, which can be achieved with a humidifier or by lightly misting the bedding.
For mothers with babies, it's especially important to keep conditions on the warmer, more humid side to support healthy development.
Cleanliness and Cage Maintenance
One of the perks of owning a Short-Tailed Opossum is how clean they are. Many will choose a specific corner of the cage as their bathroom, making it easier to spot clean. With patience, some can even be litter-box trained, which can drastically reduce mess and odor.
Even with tidy habits, the enclosure should be fully cleaned about once a week. Use a pet-safe cleaner like Kage Kleen Cage Cleaner to eliminate bacteria and odors without exposing your pet to harsh chemicals. Always rinse and dry the cage thoroughly after cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Short-Tailed Opossums may be small, but they need a thoughtfully arranged environment to stay happy and healthy. A secure, well-ventilated enclosure, safe bedding, enrichment toys, balanced nutrition, and proper cleaning practices all play an important role in their care.
At Exotic Nutrition, we carry everything you need to create a complete habitat—from high-quality opossum food and bedding to enrichment toys and cleaning supplies. Whether you’re a first-time STO owner or a seasoned exotic pet enthusiast, we’re here to help you give your opossum the best life possible.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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