Basic Ferret Care
Ferret Odor
If you own a ferret, or are thinking about owning one, you need to consider the amount of time that is required to properly care for them. Ferrets are exotic pets and they are part of the mustelid family. So, they will develop an odor when they reach maturity. If you don’t plan to breed your ferret, then de-scenting and neutering is a good idea. De-scenting will help keep their odor under control. Neutering will prevent any unwanted litters if you plan to keep two or more ferrets. Your pet will also need to see a veterinarian for vaccinations and regular check ups. Be sure to take any newly purchased animals to your vet for a check up and any necessary shots.
Ferret Diet
Ferrets require a diet that is balanced for their needs. High quality cat foods or specifically designed ferret food can be found in pretty much any pet store. Check the labels to ensure that the brand of food you choose has at least 35% protein and 20% fat. Ferrets require higher fat levels in their food than cats do. Make sure that your ferret always has fresh water available. They tend to prefer bowls to water bottles and will drink less water if you use a bottle. However, if you’re not able to change the water at least once each day, then you might want to consider the use of a water bottle instead.
Ferret Cages
Safe housing is a must for your ferret. Select a cage that is roomy, easy to clean and, of course, safe. Pay special attention to the spacing of the bars of the cage. If the ferret can force its head through any part of the cage, then that is unsafe. Also make sure that the ferret’s feet can’t get caught in any part of the cage you choose. Because ferrets enjoying playing and running around their cage, if you don’t supply them with a proper cage they can get hurt.
Ferret Hammock
Ferrets also love to sleep – from 15 to 20 hours per day. And, they like to hide is soft, dark places. They’ll be happy if you provide them with sleeping sacks and hammocks which will work for both sleep and play. You might also want to think about placing a sheet over part of their cage to supply a quiet, private area for them.
Ferret Toys
Be aware that your ferret loves to chew things. So, check your ferret’s cage and toys frequently to make sure that anything your ferret might be chewing on is either safe or is removed for its cage. If your ferret ingests pieces of plastic or fabric from a toy or something else it has been chewing on, this can cause an obstruction in its intestines and your pet will require surgery to have it removed.
Training and Socializing Your Ferret
Ferrets can be social animals. Start to introduce humans when your ferret is around 30 days old. Also, you need to let your ferret out of their cage at least twice a day, so make sure you do so in a ferret-proof room. Never leave your ferret unsupervised while it is out of its cage. They could be at risk of getting hurt.
Handle your ferret often so it will be easier to train. Training will help them interact with you. And, ferrets just love to cuddle, too. You can also litter train your ferret. The sooner you initiate litter training the more likely you are to succeed.
Ferrets are both loving and fun. The more you socialize with them, the healthier and happier they will be.
