Is Cat Food Safe for Ferrets?

Ferrets are a different and fun-loving pet choice. But because ferrets are illegal in some states and rare in others, a lack of information about them is usually the norm. Owners might be a little confused about the proper care of their pets, especially in the area of proper feeding and nutrition.

Basic Ferret Nutritional Needs

Ferrets are carnivorous by nature. They need meat in their food to be happy and healthy. Ferrets also enjoy supplemental treats, such as fruits and vegetables or even dog biscuits. Of course, if you happen to be cooking meat for dinner, most ferrets wouldn't turn down a sample of that, either. Ferret food should be hard in order to help with their dental health. You can feed your ferret a packaged diet or a natural one.

Ferret Kibble

Ferrets should eat foods made especially for them. Buy your ferret food from a trusted source, such as a ferret supplier or a pet store with knowledgeable employees. Some ferret foods contain a large quantity of fillers, which are unnecessary. Basic ferret kibble should be brown and crunchy like any other pet food. According to ferretcentral.org, the food you choose for your pet "needs to have 30 to 35 percent protein and 15 to 20 percent fat, and animal protein should be the first ingredient and at least two or three of the next few."

Cat Food

Kitten food is an acceptable alternative to more traditional ferret foods. If you live in an area where ferret products are hard to come by, kitten food can be a good choice for you and your ferret. Check the label and follow the directions for choosing a food like you would for the ferret kibble described in the previous section. Again, crunchy cat food is acceptable but not the soft kind.

Dietary Supplements

In addition to kibble, your ferret will always need fresh water. You can give your ferret other supplements as well. Meat-based baby food is a favorite treat for most ferrets. Get the kind that is all meat, not meat mixed with other ingredients. Ferrets usually go nutty for raisins. Be sure to give your ferret only one or two treats a day. The main diet for your ferret should be his kibble and water.

Feeding Complications

Ferrets will monitor their own food intake, so you don't have to worry about providing them with a constant supply of food. They will not overeat the way other animals might. A common problem for ferret owners is the smell of their pet; if your ferret smells particularly badly, consider a change in diet. Certain foods can help reduce the smell of the ferret and his surroundings better than others, but it is usually just a matter of trial and error. You can also purchase scented sprays and water additives to help with the odor.