How to Tame Your Ferret
A ferret who has happily adjusted to a home with his human family loves to be cuddled and petted. Training and proper handling can strengthen the bond between you and your ferret.
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Instructions
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Before You Begin
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Don’t handle your ferret immediately after bringing him home. Let his first few days at home be quiet ones. Allow him to adapt to his cage and his new environment.
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Providing a routine will make him feel secure and let him know what’s expected of him.
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Before you attempt to train or tame your ferret, you must develop a level of trust in your pet. You can do this by spending time with him, playing with him, and getting him used to your presence.
Working With Your Ferret
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Make sure your ferret is bright-eyed and alert--if you wake him up from a snooze, he's less likely to be receptive.
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Because ferrets have limited vision, always speak to your pet in a gentle tone of voice before picking him up. This lets him know you’re approaching but also allows him to become familiar with your voice and his name.
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Be careful not to make any sudden movements toward him. He may become nervous and nip if you do. Let him come to you at first.
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To pick up your ferret, lift him from behind using two hands--one supporting his chest, the other cradling his hips. Gently lift him in this manner and hold him against your chest.
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Once your ferret is comfortable with handling, he’ll let you know when he wants you to pick him up by holding onto your leg or grabbing your wrist when you extend your hand.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be surprised if your ferret gets a little squirmy; most ferrets must acquire a taste for being handled or cuddled by humans.
Remember, heaps of praise and a little treat will go a long way with a ferret who behaves during handling.
To ensure that your ferret becomes tame and accepts human contact, handle him frequently and correctly every day. Picking him up improperly could permanently frighten him and make him fearful or even aggressive.
Never pick your ferret up by the tail or grab him unexpectedly.
Never, ever hit your ferret for nipping--or for any reason. Not only will this frighten him, it can lead to aggressive behavior.
