Buying Your First Ferret
Where To Buy A Ferret
If you feel you’re ready to buy a ferret, then you’ll want to consider purchasing it from a breeder, a shelter or a pet store. You may have more luck finding a happy and healthy ferret if you buy from a breeder or a shelter rather than a pet store. Pet stores often don’t have the kind of time it takes to look after ferrets properly. These fuzzy little guys require almost constant attention, when they’re not sleeping, that is.
If you find a breeder through a print ad or over the Internet, be sure to ask for photos of your potential pet. If you are satisfied with the information you get then you can make your selection. Odds are that you’ll have to fill out a few forms and, of course, pay for your ferret. You may even be able to take him home on the same day.
Adopt A Baby Ferret
Ferrets can be adopted at almost any age. If you decide that you want to raise a new born ferret, make sure to ask the breeder about animal care. so that you’re prepared for the specialized care a baby ferret will require. Although these cute little guys are able to see, their vision is limited. You’ll need to supervise to make sure they are safe and don’t hurt themselves. You’ll also need to train them to use litter. Supervision and training can take up a lot of your time.
Adults on the other hand can be quite different. Sometimes an adult ferret will already be trained to use a litter tray and may even know a few tricks. But, often, this is not the case and you’ll still need to teach them such things.
In either case, you’re going to need to ferret-proof your home in order to keep your pet safe and to prevent damage to your house.
Ferret Prices
The cost of a ferret often depends on their size and age. Generally, they cost somewhere between $75 and $125. But, don’t forget the other things you will also need to buy, like their cage, a litter tray, safe toys and vet appointments for check ups and vaccinations.
Is Your Ferret Legal?
Before you even consider buying a ferret, you need to know if owning one as a pet is legal in your area. A call to the local wildlife and game department should get you the answers you seek. You may also need a license for your new pet. Making sure of the legal standing of ferrets in your area before you commit to owning one can prevent any heartbreak in the future.
Ferret Tips
There are a few things that you should look for when you’re buying a ferret. Make sure their eyes are bright and clear and that their fur is in good condition. An active ferret is a good sign. Also, you won’t want your ferret to reproduce, so make sure it has been neutered. If not, be sure to schedule the procedure with your vet.
Once you’ve purchase your ferret, the responsibility of their day-to-day care falls squarely on your shoulders. Even though they can sleep for 18 hours a day, or more, when they’re awake they’ll be very active. They’ll want out of their cage and they’ll want to play.
In order to keep the animal healthy, you need to find a vet that has experience treating ferrets. If the vet that’s in your area is not qualified to care for ferrets, they may be able to refer you to someone who is.
Food is one of the most important considerations in order to keep your ferret healthy. Always look for food that has been specially formulated for ferrets to make sure you are meeting their specific needs.
