Pet Ferret
Everything You Need to Know About Caring for Your Pet Ferret
You may be surprised to hear that, after dogs and cats, the most common uncaged domestic animal is the pet ferret. Gaining in popularity, this adorable little animal is simple to care for and a rewarding addition to your home.
To understand a little more about your pet ferret, discover some scientific details. The ferret is related to the mink, skunk, weasel and otter. It is generally a long animal with short legs and a long, fuzzy tail. Full grown ferrets weigh between 2 pounds (female) and four pounds (male). They grow two coats of fur, one for summer and one for winter, and will require grooming similar to a cat. Ferrets can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but tend to get lazy when the temperature climbs above 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Your pet ferret has a life span of about 8 to 10 years. Remember to have your pet spayed or neutered, as well as immunized. Females especially, should be spayed or they risk suffering from aplastic anemia unless they have the option to mate. Consider descenting your ferret as well, if only to decrease any unpleasantness you may experience as the owner. Spaying, neutering and descenting your pet ferret can improve their quality of life. Be sure to schedule regular veterinarian check ups and vaccinations as well.
Ferrets enjoy life outside of a cage, but may appreciate having a cage home set up for them as a retreat. They sleep for a good portion of the day and will be awake and active for a few hours around sunrise and sunset. Ferrets love to play and can be mischievous as well. You may find that they have hidden or claimed one of your belongings, especially socks, slippers and bags. They enjoy turning things inside out and playing hunting and stalking games. Expect to give a ferret free reign in your home to keep them happy and active.
Adopting a pair or group of ferrets may also be a good idea. They are social creatures and enjoy wrestling with and chasing each other. Be doubly sure that you have taken precautions to spay and neuter your pet ferrets if you have them in mixed groups. Breeding ferrets is not an easy undertaking.
Purchase dry, good quality ferret food for your pet. Kitten food can also be eaten. Small treats of fresh fruit or vegetables are also desirable for the little animal. Steer clear of dairy products, meat, bread or nuts as treats. Clean water should be provided regularly throughout the day.
Remember that ferrets are curious and active pets. Having a ferret in your home with young children may not be the best idea. Consider the dangers to both humans and ferrets should they not understand each other’s temperaments. All of that being said, ferrets are excellent family pets that will enjoy living with various people to watch, chase after and play with.
Ferrets use a litter box much like a cat and don’t require outdoor exercise. They will get plenty inside your home! Pet ferrets will not destroy or damage your furniture by scratching or biting and they can live happily in smaller areas such as condos or apartments. Some claim that ferrets are ideal for allergy sufferers. Check with your doctor beforehand to be clear of your potential allergens.
Be prepared to maintain your pet’s health by visiting a good veterinarian for check ups and in the event of an emergency or illness. Watch for fangs being broken during play and have that looked after immediately, as it can be very painful for your pet.
Purchase your pet ferret from a reputable pet store or animal shelter. Don’t buy into the claims of unknown breeders. Talk to happy ferret owners and get recommendations and advice. As with any animal, choose the one or two that you connect with and look forward to an active, happy new member of your household. Then you can join the growing number of satisfied and caring ferret owners.