Paca Care Sheet

Origin:

Pacas (*Cuniculus paca*) are large, nocturnal rodents native to Central and South America. They are primarily found in tropical forests near rivers, streams, and wetlands. Pacas are known for their distinctive spotted fur and burrowing habits.

Description:

Pacas are medium to large rodents, weighing 20–35 pounds and measuring 24–36 inches in length, including the tail. They have short, sleek fur with white spots along their sides, large eyes, and strong teeth for gnawing. Lifespan in captivity is approximately 12–15 years. They are nocturnal and mostly terrestrial, though excellent swimmers.

Temperament:

Pacas are shy, nocturnal, and generally solitary. They are intelligent but easily stressed by excessive handling. They prefer quiet environments and are most active during the evening and night.

Feeding:

• Staple diet: High-quality commercial rodent blocks or exotic mammal diets.
• Fruits: Banana, papaya, melon, apple, and pear in moderation.
• Vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, squash, and sweet potato.
• Supplements: Mineral blocks or cuttlebone for calcium.
• Water: Fresh water must be available at all times, ideally in a shallow dish or bottle.

A diet high in fiber and low in sugar is essential for healthy digestion and dental health.

Housing:

• Enclosure type: Secure, escape-proof pen or indoor enclosure with digging and hiding areas.
• Size: Minimum 100 sq. ft per animal; larger is better.
• Bedding: Straw, hay, or soil; avoid cedar or pine shavings.
• Nesting: Provide burrows, boxes, or tunnels for hiding and sleeping.
• Temperature: 70–85°F; avoid cold drafts and wet conditions.
• Cleaning: Remove waste daily and refresh bedding weekly.

Companionship:

Pacas are solitary and territorial. Housing multiple animals together is not recommended except during breeding, and even then careful monitoring is required.

Handling:

Pacas are best observed rather than handled frequently. If handling is necessary, approach calmly and use gloves for protection, as they have sharp teeth. Avoid forcing interactions to minimize stress.

Health:

Common health concerns:

• Dental problems due to insufficient gnawing opportunities
• Obesity from overfeeding or high-sugar diets
• Respiratory infections if enclosure is damp or poorly ventilated
• Parasites such as mites or ticks

Signs of illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, abnormal weight, or changes in behavior. Consult an exotic animal veterinarian promptly if any symptoms appear.

Grooming:

Pacas naturally groom themselves. Provide digging materials, burrows, or shallow sand areas to support natural behaviors. Periodically inspect for parasites or fur issues.

Fun Facts:

• Pacas are excellent swimmers and can escape predators by diving into water.
• Their spotted coat provides camouflage in the forest undergrowth.
• They create burrows along riverbanks, sometimes up to 10 feet long.
• Pacas are primarily nocturnal, feeding at night and resting in burrows during the day.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.
1711 Connorvale Rd., Houston, TX 77039
(281) 590-0426
www.sandsexoticanimals.com