How to Play With a Pet Ferret

Ferrets are fun-loving pets that bond to humans readily. Your pet will quickly want to be involved in all of your activities but will love playtime the most. You will need to keep a few ideas in mind to give your ferret the best playtime possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Give your ferret your time. To thrive, ferrets need at least two good play sessions each day. A play session should be at least an hour.

2. Ferret-proof your home. Your pet will enjoy play the most if she can be out of her cage and allowed to roam about your house. Look for any nooks, crannies and holes that they might wander into and cover them. Also make sure your windows and doors are secure, and that window screens are in good repair.

3. Handle your ferret. Ferrets enjoy anything from rough play to petting. Interact with your pet ferret in different ways to see what he responds to best.
   
   

4. Discipline your ferret gently during play. Ferrets have a natural tendency to nip during play. Your ferret isn't trying to hurt you; she's just excited! Show her you don't like it with a firm "no." You can also gently grab her scruff. Anything more than that, and your ferret may lose her trust.

5. Add toys to your play session—ferrets love them. Balls, squeaky toys, play houses and tunnels can entrance them for hours. As you select toys, look for those that your ferret can't eat. The harder the material, the better.

6. Take your ferret out in public. Train him to adjust to a harness and leash. Once he knows how to walk on a leash, your pet ferret will enjoy exploring the world with you!

Tips & Warnings

• Most larger pet stores sell ferret-specific toys. You can also find them online.
• Not all pet ferrets enjoy walking on a leash. If your pet doesn't enjoy it after a couple of months of training, try another activity with her.
• Ferrets can have severe allergic reactions to bee stings and insect bites. Keep this in mind as you walk your ferret outdoors.