How to Train a Ferret Not to Bite
While ferrets like to nip and bite while playing, it is the owner's responsibility to teach them to avoid this behavior. You can withdraw attention, keep your ferret in the cage and this can solve the problem. Sometimes you may need to resort to the more drastic measures described here. Remember that you should never hit your ferret while trying to discipline it, as ferrets are fragile and sensitive pets. Read on to learn how to train a ferret not to bite.
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Instructions
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Understand Why Ferrets Bite
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Know that ferrets like to bite when they get excited.
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Keep in mind that ferrets have very high energy levels when awake and they love attention. Leaving them in their cage can be punishment enough.
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Remember that punishing a ferret for bad behavior is not recommended. Simply ignore him, and give your ferret attention for good behavior.
Try a Verbal Warning
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Emit a loud "Hey" or "Ow" when your ferret nips or bites.
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Pull away from the nipping ferret.
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Walk away from the ferret and give him time to calm down.
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Return to the ferret and begin your usual playtime routine. Repeat as necessary.
Continue More Drastic Measures
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Give your pet ferret a "time out" if he continues to bite.
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Pry your ferret from your fingers if necessary. Lower him slowly to the ground and open his mouth carefully.
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Place your pet in the cage and leave him to calm down.
Reward Good Behavior
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Give your ferret a special treat when he is behaving. Just remember not to give him too much.
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Reward your pet ferret when he stops biting and returns to regular play.
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Remember to give your pet ferret small pieces of treats. You should be able to give him a few snacks each day.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid making exclamations that are too high in pitch. They may excite your ferret.
Pin the ferret down gently if he begins to bite again.
Know that the basics of all training regimens involve withdrawal of attention and playtime.
Try coating your fingers with bitter apple spray, available from most pet stores. Ferrets hate the taste of it and won't bite your fingers.
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Comments
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hi I have 4 ferrets and its only one that bites but now starting to teach the others aggression any advise?
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I'm thinking about getting one for my 14th bday next year my mom told me to do reserch them I'm wondering if they will bite my fingers to where they bleed would they do that?
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I have a 4 yr old male and he wont stopp biting the cage bars...im afraid hes gunna break his teeth......ive given him toys and everything but he wont stop....wht should I do?
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I want to get a ferret. I've had them before. I'm just nervous about the amount of time I'll be able to spend with her.
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I have two baby ferrets how do I get them to both stop biteing me and others when walking for being held cuz when I get one to stop the other starts doin it agian.
