Cici, the pampered and sometimes sulky masked palm civet

For over ten years, Amie Ismail has shared her life with Cici, a masked palm civet who has become a cherished companion. While cats and dogs are common pets, masked palm civets offer a unique charm with their affectionate and sociable disposition, often becoming integral members of the family.

Amie, originally from Batu Pahat, Johor, developed an interest in these animals after spotting one gracefully navigating an electric wire on her way home from work. This captivating sight sparked her curiosity, leading her to learn more about them. Her fascination grew, and in 2014, she began keeping a masked palm civet after receiving a young one from a friend. This particular civet, found orphaned after its family was captured and released into the wild, was lovingly named Cici and became a part of Amie's household.

Cici possesses a distinct personality that endears her further to Amie. Described as very friendly and prone to sulking, Cici enjoys outings, whether by car or motorcycle. Amie ensures Cici's comfort through diligent daily care, prioritizing cleanliness, nutrition, and health. Cici's enclosure is cleaned daily, and her diet consists of three meals a day, a mix of fruits and boiled chicken, with vitamins administered weekly.

Her favorite foods include Musang King durian and shredded boiled chicken mixed with rice and soy sauce. Amie also notes the importance of avoiding certain foods, like chocolate, which are unsuitable for a masked palm civet's natural diet. Amie advises that taming these animals is easier when they are young, as building trust requires patience. Young civets need intensive care, including feeding milk every four hours in their early stages. While Cici is accustomed to humans, Amie acknowledges challenges, particularly when leaving her with others, as some masked palm civets can be wary of unfamiliar individuals.