Ferrets

Choosing to bring home a domesticated ferret can be a fun alternative for pet shoppers. Their determination, intelligence, playfulness, fearlessness, and energetic personalities are quite unique though they share many similarities with cats and dogs. Ferrets make great pets for people in apartments. Like cats, they can be trained to use litter boxes and are generally quiet animals. Similar to dogs, a ferret can be trained to do tricks, travel well, and bond with their owners. Also like cats and dogs, young ferrets (called a kit) require a lot of attention and dedication to training.

Before bringing a ferret home it is very important to “ferret-proof” your home. Though they are not destructive animals they create mischief constantly. The scientific name for the ferret is Mustela putorious fur which means “little thief.” These clever critters will crawl into tight spaces, play hide and seek, and steal anything they might think is a fun toy. Trashcans, bags, houseplants, boxes, and laundry baskets all become a playground of not kept from a ferret.

Choosing your ferret is largely based on preference and personality, however, there are differences in a male or a female. Male ferrets are usually larger than females and range from 2-5lbs. An un-neutered male will have a stronger scent than the female. After the ferret is neutered the scent decreases and can be further decreased by descenting. Typically a ferret will live 6 to 8 years. These are highly social creatures and enjoy the company of another ferret.

Ferrets require a large, secure wire cage. The bottom should be solid to protect their feet. They cannot be kept in aquariums and cannot have clay or cedar shavings as their bedding. Recycled paper or organic pellets may be used in their litter boxes. A major characteristic of these animals is their curiosity. They enjoy their cages to have different types of beds, new things to explore, assorted toys, etc. The new experiences keep the ferret entertained while in the cage. Ferrets do require time outside of their cage.

A ferret can be kept in one room or can be free to roam about the house. It is a matter of safety for the animal, your preference, and the animal’s personality that determines this. When the ferret is having it’s free time, be sure to keep an eye out him. Check cushions before sitting down, behind pillows, under laundry, etc. These are places they like to explore. Also be sure to Block off furnaces, refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers. Ferrets also enjoy time outside if on a harness. Never let your ferret explore outside without one. Be aware of the things he explores too. Anything ingested can be hazardous.

A ferret needs to eat frequently so it is best to keep food readily available.
There are dried foods made specifically for ferrets and contain at least 30% protein. Treats are a wonderful tool to use in training and to help bond with your ferret. Water should also be available constantly. Some say a water dish is best while others say a water bottle is best. If your ferret is prone to making a toy out of it’s water dish, a water bottle may be a better choice.

Ferrets need their nails clipped, ears cleaned, and teeth brushed with cat toothpaste every 2-3 weeks. A bath once a month is adequate and more bathing will actually increase an odor. Just like cats and dogs, ferrets are required to have a series of vaccinations and should have an annual exam.

Feel free to bring up other questions or concerns with AllPet’s knowledgeable staff. We can refer local vets, ferret owner’s manuals, and other resources and can even introduce you to a few friendly ferrets.