How to Buy a Ferret

Contrary to common misconception, ferrets are not rodents. They're more like a cross between a cat and a dog, and they're extremely friendly and playful. Ferrets are quite active and require a lot of initial training and care; be prepared for your ferret to command your daily attention.

Things You'll Need

• Exercise Pens For Ferrets
• Ferret Ear Cleaning Solutions
• Small Water Bottles For Pets
• Dry Ferret Food
• Ferret Cages With Starter Kits
• Ferret Deodorizing Sprays
• Ferret Hammock
• Ferret Shampoo
• Ferret Toys
• Litter Boxes For Ferrets

Instructions

1. Contact your local wildlife or fish and game department, the humane society or your local veterinarian to find out if ferrets are legal in your area and whether or not you'll need a license to own one.

2. Collect these supplies before welcoming your new ferret: food, a cage, food and water containers, vitamins, treats and toys.

3. Ferret-proof your house. Ferrets are mischievous and get into everything.

4. Check at local pet stores, but read up on state law - just because a store in your town carries ferrets, that doesn't necessarily mean they're legal. Also consider ferret shelters and look for newspaper ads for breeders.

5. Choose the age and gender of your prospective ferret. Babies are called kits until they are 4 to 6 months old, at which time they are considered adults.

6. Consider the ferret's size. Males are considerably larger at 18 inches and 2 to 5 lbs. Females can grow to about 15 inches and weigh in at 3/4 to 2 1/2 lbs.

7. Examine the ferret's appearance. Look for bright eyes, a soft coat, healthy skin and whiskers and a playful attitude. Coat colors vary greatly, ranging from albino and dark-eyed white to sable, chocolate and silver. Some ferrets may have white patches or stripes.

8. Prepare to spend $75 to $100 on a ferret.

9. Expect to enjoy a good 6 to 10 years with your ferret.

Tips & Warnings

• You may have to do daily cleanup; ferrets can be litter-trained but are prone to shredding their floors and bedding.

• Expect to spend $1 to $5 per pound for high-quality ferret food.

• Obtain the appropriate vaccinations for your ferret, including rabies and canine distemper.

• Find a good vet who understands the complexities of ferret care before you adopt - you want to be prepared for an emergency.

• Be prepared for the ferret's distinct, strong scent. Before you get a ferret, make sure that you can tolerate this odor and that you don't have an adverse reaction to it.

• If you have a child in the house, realize that ferrets have sharp teeth and may bite when startled. Small children should never be left alone with ferrets.