Ferrets

Ferrets are good natured, curious animals. They are very active and playful, and enjoy the company of humans and animals. They make excellent pets. They can be litter box trained. They are quiet pets, only making a few vocalizations like chuckles, squeals, and giggles during play. Ferrets can play around the house but please make sure to "ferret proof" your home, these curious creatures will get lost very easily. "Ferret proofing" is best done with a roll of duct tape and cardboard. Block off any air ducts, behind major appliances and any other holes, or nooks and crannies. Keep a collar with a bell and I.D. tag on your pet when it's out of its cage.

General Information

Ferrets can be trained to come to a bell or whistle. They are easily trained to walk on a harness and leash. Young ferrets usually need discipline training for nipping when they get excited. This can be achieved easily by a tap on the nose with a firm "NO." Do not encourage rough biting play with toys and your hands. Ferrets body length is usually 9-15 inches, weight is 1-2 kg for males and .5-1.0 kg for females. Sexual maturity is reached at 4-8 months, and their average life span is 5-8 years. It is very important to consult your vet upon purchasing your pet: properly determining the sex of your pet is pertinent to your ferret's health. Females must be bred or spayed by the time they reach sexual maturity or they will die from fatal estrogen toxicity. Males are more placid and less moody if neutered. De-scenting is highly recommended for your comfort.

Feeding

Ferrets' diets are high in meat protein and fat. They do not digest large amounts of fiber well. Commercial food made specially for ferrets should be used. Fruit and veggie treats should be limited to 1 teaspoon daily. Sugars and salt should be avoided. Always supply fresh water.

Prevention is the key to Health

Visit your vet yearly and after purchase.
Vaccinate yearly
Ferrets over the age of 3 need geriatric exams every 6-12 months
Fecal exams for worms, parasites or bacteria
Groom regularly, trim nails, clean ears, bathe & brush teeth
Heartworm medication is recommended
Avoid exposing your ferret to human influenza
Spay and neuter
Check play areas for potential hazards, "Ferret Proof" your home

Prevent access for Safety

Table scraps
Sugar or salt
Vegetable protein
High fiber
Rubber plastic toys easily ingested
Cedar shavings
Unsupervised play in home
Dogs, birds, small mammals, children unsupervised
Overheating
Electrical cords
Ingestible cloth fibers

Housing

Ferrets need to be caged when unsupervised. A cage without wire flooring is recommended. Shavings or newspaper can be used as substrate (No cedar shavings). Cage furniture can consist of hammocks, muffs, tunnels, tubes, and old towels or fabric for bedding. A litter box should be in the cage corner (careful with litter, they like to dig). Average room temperature and humidity is required, no greater than 80 degrees Fahrenheit, or humidity over 55 %. Provide a strong locking cage for these escape artists.