Ferrets are wonderful companions. If you plan on getting a ferret, here are some basic care guidelines you will want to follow.
Some people will look at ferrets and wonder if they are more like cats or more like rodents. In fact, ferrets are cousins to skunks and weasels and are considered part of the mustildae family. These long, wily and furry creatures are a wonderful pet for some.
Many ferret owners will admit to receiving hours of
entertainment watching their ferrets play and run around;
however, not every person is suited for the responsibilities
that come along with being a ferret owner. Before deciding to
acquire a ferret as a pet, read up on ferrets or consult a
friend or relative who has a ferret to learn more about what
having one as a pet entails. If you are on your way to getting
a ferret, here are some basic care guidelines.
Ferrets usually have a lifespan of anywhere from six to
twelve years, so if you decide to acquire a ferret as a new
pet, you will definitely need to be committed to the long run.
Baby ferrets are called kits, but full grown ferrets can weigh
up to four pounds and grow anywhere from twelve to sixteen
inches long. Before bringing your ferret home, you will need
to provide a proper cage for him. The cage will need to be
large enough for him to roam in and be equipped with different
lounging areas, including a hammock (for your ferret’s
relaxing times) and shelves for him to climb on. Since ferrets
are extremely clever animals, you may need to reinforce the
cage doors with extra clips, so your ferret does not get
loose. This cage will need to be located in a room that is not
too hot or cold and away from any direct sunlight. Within the
cage, you will also need to provide your ferret with a
comfortable ferret-safe bed. After all, ferrets sleep for the
majority of the day (approximately 18 hours).
As for food, ferrets are mainly meat eaters, so any type of
food products that include corn, vegetables and fruits are not
options. Be sure to speak with a reputable pet store about the
types of foods you can provide to your ferret. For the food,
you will need a food dish as well as a water dish or water
bottle that can be hung from the cage wall.
Fortunately, ferrets can be easily litter-box trained (like
cats), so invest in a small-sized litter box (with sides that
are only one to two inches off the ground) and some litter.
Again, you may want to speak to a pet store associate to
determine the type of litter that will be best for your
ferret.
Ferrets do not like to be caged up all the time and, in
fact, need to be let out of their cage several times
throughout the day. If you want to take your ferret outdoors,
you may want to invest in a harness and leash for your ferret.
When allowing your ferret out of his cage, be sure to warn
other people not to grab at or chase after the ferret, as the
ferret may bite its “attacker” out of fear. Since ferrets can
be wily little creatures, you may need to get a collar and
bell for your ferret so you know where he is at all times.
Other supplies you will need to get are some ferret-safe
toys, nail clippers and shampoo designed specifically for
ferrets. Contrary to popular belief, ferrets do not need to be
shampooed too frequently (to cover up their naturally musky
scent); shampooing a ferret too much causes his skin to dry
out, thereby making his skin produce even more skin oil, which
is exactly what you do not want to happen.
When you acquire your ferret, be sure to schedule an
appointment with the veterinarian who can school you on the
types of inoculations and booster shots your ferret will need
to get. Your vet may also suggest providing vitamin
supplements like ferretone and linatone to your ferret for
extra health benefits.