How to Trim Ferret Whiskers

A ferret's whiskers should be trimmed only if they are very long.

The ferret has been kept as a pet, hunting or show animal for hundreds of years. Ferrets are friendly, independent animals and do not require a lot of grooming. Whiskers form an important part of a ferret's identity, and they do not require regular cutting. Ferrets have very poor eyesight, and so rely on their whiskers to help them navigate their environment. However, if a ferret has unusually long whiskers, or you are entering it in a show, the whiskers may need a slight trim.

Things You'll Need

• table
• nail scissors

Instructions

1. Place the ferret on a table so you are at an even height, and slowly stroke its head and back a few times, and talk to the animal in a soothing voice. This will help it relax.

2. Cut each whisker tip individually with the nail scissors, making sure not to frighten or upset the ferret. Act slowly and deliberately. Keep talking to the ferret and stroking him from time to time. You should only trim the very end of the whisker, cutting no more than half an inch off each one.

3. Reward the ferret when you have finished. Stroke him, and give him a food treat such as some raisins or grapes.

Tips & Warnings

• Be wary if cutting a hob's (male ferret) whiskers from spring to mid-summer, as this is the time when they are in season and are searching for a mate. They are more likely to act aggressively towards you.

• A ferret's whiskers will grow back, so do not be alarmed if you trim the whiskers too short.

• If the nail scissors are not sharp enough, you can also trim the whiskers with small hairdressing scissors.

• Ferrets do have sharp teeth and may bite you if they feel threatened. Do not attempt to cut the ferret's whiskers if the animal appears scared or uneasy.

References

• “Complete Guide to Ferrets”; James McKay
• “Complete Book of Ferrets”; Val Porter and Nicholas Brown

Resources

• American Ferret Association