Ferret Bedding Ideas
Whether your ferret sleeps in a cage or you allow it to roam your home, the critter needs a comfortable bed in which to nest. Choose bedding material that will keep your ferret clean and comfortable, and arrange the ferret's bed so that it's enticing and safe. If you have more than one ferret, make their bedding big enough for two since they enjoy piling together.
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Conditions
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Ferrets don't do well in open locations, and they do not enjoy hard, flat bedding. They like to nest, tunnel and dig into soft material. They prefer dark, warm and dry areas. Their bedding should be snug and closed in, giving them a sense of privacy. If you don't cage your ferret, build its bed in an enclosed area. Many enjoy sleeping in drawers -- remove your clothes from one and keep it cracked just enough so that the ferret can climb in. Alternatively, purchase a small, covered cat bed. If your ferret has a cage, place its bedding away from litter, and place the cage itself away from lamps and other light sources.
Materials
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Since ferrets prefer warm and snug beds that they can burrow into, use narrow tubes of fabric. Cut the sleeves or legs from old clothing -- the ferret will enjoy climbing inside. If you're handy with a sewing machine, piece together old towels or bedclothes. Use extra soft material, such as fleece, when possible. A thick pair of socks with the toes cut out or a pair of leg warmers also make good bedding. If your ferret eats cloth, you may need to make its bed from something else. Try an empty milk carton with a hole cut into it or both ends opened. Any small, sturdy box will do.
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Tips
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If you use a box instead of cloth for your ferret's bedding, secure it to the sleeping area. Use tape or glue to keep it from moving, otherwise the ferret may push it into water or soiled litter. If the bed is in an elevated area, securing it prevents the ferret from pushing it off -- and possibly falling with it. Check the bedding regularly for holes, snags and raggedy ends. When the fabric wears out, the likelihood of your ferret snagging its nails or getting its head caught increases. Toss out damaged bedding and replace it to prevent accidents. Wash good bedding regularly to keep it smelling fresh.
Caution
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When choosing material for your ferret's cage, avoid any fabric with strings, buttons, elastic or small attached objects. A curious ferret will chew and possibly swallow these items, which can cause intestinal problems and blockages. Do not use sawdust, cedar chips or pine chips. These items make it difficult for your ferret to breathe. They also cause eye irritation and infections.
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References
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