Primates kept as pets in the UK and globally face profound welfare deprivation. The UK currently allows primates to be kept as pets, despite widespread recognition that their needs cannot be met in domestic settings.
Pet primates cannot have their welfare needs met in domestic settings. Their social, cognitive and spatial needs are incompatible with captivity in a household environment. Common marmosets kept alone — the most common scenario — develop depression, aggression and self-mutilation. The failure to implement a ban despite clear welfare evidence and public support represents a significant policy failure. Sanctuaries for former pet primates are at capacity across the UK.