How to Make an Inexpensive Tunnel Toy for Ferrets

By Mauschen

Rate: (5 Ratings)

You will learn how to devise an inexpensive tunnel toy that ferrets can't resist.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Dryer hose
optional: pillow case, twine

Step1

You can find dryer hose for purchase at any local hardware store. The price generally ranges from $4 to $12 depending on material and length. Alternately, you can order hose from various suppliers online. If you're lucky, you can find a deal!

It is always best to call your hardware store and ask about the varieties they carry. The most popular hose for ferrets is clear vinyl. It will allow you to watch your pets as they run through the tunnel.

Step2

Carefully inspect the quality of the hose for defects or exposed wire. Place on the ground, and watch the mayhem!

Step3

Dryer hose is an ideal toy for storage. It bends, can be stretched out, or even coiled into a spiral. You can extend a ferret's interest in a toy by putting it away for a few play sessions.

Tips & Warnings

To create a private hidey-hole: add a pillow case to the end of your hose and secure it with a length of twine.
Experiment by inserting the end of the hose into boxes or draping it over furniture.
Some creative ferret owners have made long obstacle courses with dryer hose, and even affixed them to walls!
Always inspect each end and the entire length of the hose for exposed wire and torn vinyl/plastic/foil. Some ferrets enjoy pawing and chewing plastic and vinyl. After heavy use, the hose may begin to tear and deteriorate. To avoid accidental ingestion of foil or plastic, discard the hose if the ferret starts to tear or bite into the material.
If you notice a sharp edge to any of the supportive wire along the length of the hose, you may wish to take a pair of pliers and carefully bend them into a circlet. This will avoid unintentional scrapes or punctures.
Be careful with taping the ends or any length of the hose. Again, ferrets may be attracted to the tape. You want to avoid any accidental ingestion of tape, plastic, or foil.