About Ferret Care

Ferrets, like other pets, require a plan for their care, feeding and health routines. Owners need to be able to play with their ferret pets which is entertaining for both and also develops the owner-pet bond. Decide whether you will house the ferret solely in a cage or allow it to wander around the house. Find a good vet for physicals and any emergency care needed. Ferrets can get things lodged in their digestive system or get sick like other pets.

Features

Dry ferret food provides ample proteins and keeps the ferrets teeth and gums clean. Baby ferrets need a softer food, such as dry pellets mixed with water. Ferrets may be trained to walk on a leash in a harness. Collaring the pet ferret helps others to recognize it as a pet, not a rodent, if it escapes your home or apartment.

Misconceptions

Collars should not be chosen based on the colors or cool looking materials. The collar needs to be lightweight to keep your ferret from trying to remove it. Nylon and suede are good collar materials. A small bell is OK and helps you locate the ferret.
Ferrets do not have to stay in cages. Ferret-proof the largest room in your house and let them run free. Ferrets enjoy being the center of attention so the living room or den is the best place for them.

Warning

Healthy ferrets may live as long as 7 years. Be cautious of purchasing a ferret as a pet for children who may not be able to care for the ferret the full lifespan due to college, high school commitments or loss of interest. A ferret is a big responsibility, and, like any pet, you are accepting that responsibility for the pet's entire lifetime.

Considerations

Ferrets require time and attention to keep them happy and entertained. Owners should have a lifestyle that allows enough flexibility and time to care for and play with a ferret pet. Also, check with the apartment or housing unit to make sure ferrets are allowed. Some apartments allow cats, dogs and fish, but no rodents or exotic pets.

Types

Ferrets require a clean cage, daily food and water, and litter changes. They also need veterinary visits for physicals and vaccines. The cage or ferret condo should be large enough to allow a litter area, sleeping area and feeding corner. Include something ferrets can crawl into to be alone. Include tubes, ladders and hammocks for your ferret to play on.

Expert Insight

Ferrets are usually neutered when you purchase them. However, if they are not, and you will not be breeding ferrets, spaying and neutering is essential. Female ferrets must be neutered to avoid risk of aplastic anemia from not breeding. Likewise, male ferrets must be neutered or they will become hostile to the owner and others.