How to Train Ferrets

Ferrets are bright and fun-loving animals and can be taught to obey simple commands. You can train a ferret far more readily than you can a cat or a hamster, though it takes time, patience and consistency.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ferretone treat
• Bitter Apple training aid
• Litter box

1. Teach the ferret his name. This is an invaluable tool to train him properly and will be a great help with more sophisticated commands. Say his name several times whenever you approach him and give him a little treat. He'll soon learn to respond when you repeat his name at other times.

2. Repeat the word "no" whenever the ferret does something he isn't supposed to, coupled with removing the object on which he is focused. If he nips at your hand (usually a sign of playfulness), pull it away and say, "No." If he's chewing somewhere he shouldn't, pull him out of the spot and repeat the phrase. Not only will he learn not to engage in the unwanted activity, but he will also respond appropriately to the word "no" in the future.

3. Spray Bitter Apple training aid on cables and electrical cords in your home. Ferrets love to chew on them, but they hate the taste of Bitter Apple. You can purchase the product at neighborhood pet stores like Pet Smart (see Resources below).

4. Train the ferret to use a litter box by placing one in the corner and filling it with sand. Whenever you catch the ferret relieving himself somewhere else, remove him to the litter box. Say, "No" when you see him peeing where he shouldn't, and then praising him when he reaches the box and begins to use it properly.

5. Teach the ferret to roll over or perform other simple tricks. Reveal a snack or treat to the ferret and move it in the direction you want him to move while repeating the key phrase ("roll over" or "sit up," for example). When he performs the trick, reward him with praise and the treat. He'll soon learn to do it whenever you admonish him, regardless of whether there's a treat involved or not.

6. Remain consistent in your application of praise and discouragement. The more you respond in an identical fashion to the same behavior, the more you train the ferret to know what to expect. He will behave well when he knows that praise will come, and he will avoid behavior that results in a scolding.

Tips & Warnings

• Whenever a ferret responds to a command correctly, reward him with praise and give him a little treat like Ferretone. Positive reinforcement will help imprint the training in his mind.
• Ferrets have a tendency to play in sand-filled litter boxes rather than using them for their appointed purposes. To discourage this, always leave a few dropping in the box when you clean it out--the smell will let him know what it is for.
• Never use physical violence to train ferrets. They respond poorly to it, and you can seriously injure them. Verbal admonitions and firm but gentle movements are much healthier and more effective as training tools.

Resources

• Pet Smart for Bitter Apple taste deterrent.