Ferret Care Information

If you own a ferret, or are thinking about adopting a ferret, you need to consider the amount of time that is required for proper ferret care. Ferrets are exotic pets and they are part of the mustelid family. So, they will develop an odor when they reach maturity. If you’re not planning to breed your ferret, then de-scenting and neutering is essential. De-scenting will help keep their odor under control. Neutering will prevent any unwanted litters if you plan to keep two or more ferrets. Your pet will also need to see a veterinarian for vaccinations and regular check ups. Always take any newly adopted animals to a vet for a check up and all necessary shots.
A ferret’s diet needs to be properly balanced. Both high quality cat foods and specifically designed ferret food can be found in most pet stores. Read the labels to be sure that the brand of food you’ve selected contains at least 35% protein and 20% fat. Ferrets need higher fast levels in their food than cats do. Make sure that your ferret always has fresh water available. They tend to prefer bowls to water bottles and will drink less water if you use a bottle. However, if you’re not able to change the water at least once each day, then you might want to consider the use of a water bottle instead.
Safe housing is a must for your ferret. Select a ferret home that is roomy, easy to clean and, of course, safe. Give the spacing of the bars in your ferret’s cage special consideration. If a ferret can push its head through any part of its cage, then that cage is unsafe. Always make sure that your ferret’s feet don’t get caught in any part of the cage that you’ve selected. Ferrets really like to run around and play in their cages, so if you don’t get them the correct type of cage, they could get hurt.
Ferrets also love to sleep - from 15 to 20 hours per day. And, they like to hide is soft, dark places. They’ll be happy if you provide them with sleeping sacks and hammocks which will work for both sleep and play. Placing a sheet over a section of their cage will give them a quiet, private area.
Be mindful that your ferret just loves to chew things. Check your ferret’s cage often to remove anything they might be chewing on that isn’t safe for them. If your ferret ingests pieces of plastic or fabric from something it has been chewing on, this can cause an obstruction in its intestines and your pet will require surgery to have it removed.
Ferrets can be social animals. Start to initiate human contact when your ferret is around 30 days old. Also, you need to let your ferret out of their cage at least twice a day, so make sure you do so in a ferret-proof room. Never leave your ferret unsupervised while it is out of its cage. They might be at risk of injury.
Handle your ferret often so it will be easier to train. Training is a way to help you communicate with your pet. And, ferrets just love to cuddle, too. You can also litter train your ferret. The sooner you initiate litter training the more likely you are to succeed.
Ferrets are both affectionate and fun. The more you socialize with them, the healthier and happier they will be.

Bringing Your Ferret Home
There’s a few things that you should know before you bring your ferret home. First, select an area where you want to keep your ferret. They will be spending the majority of their time here, so be sure to make the area both safe and comfortable. You’ll have lots of choices available for ferret cages. It’s key that they have enough room to run around and have not gaps in the levels so your ferret doesn’t get hurt. Soft bedding is crucial for your ferret’s comfort and safety. Cages with a plastic bottom are easier to clean. Cages with metal bottoms tend to rust and look soiled and stained after several washings. If you do purchase a cage with plastic coated metal, check to be sure that your ferret isn’t chewing on the plastic. If your ferret swallows bits of plastic they could cause a serious health problem that may even require surgery. Providing hammocks and sleeping sacks will not only serve to make your ferret happier but more comfortable, too. A ferret often sleeps up to 20 hours per day, so sleeping comfort is important. Don’t forget that your ferret needs to be out of his cage at least two hours a day, so make sure you ferret-proof that room so they don’t get hurt.
Your ferret will always welcome a selection of toys. But, be careful about what toys you select for your ferret. Poorly chosen toys could actually put your ferret’s life in danger. The toys need to be able to resist damage from a ferret’s sharp teeth. Cat toys often work well for ferrets. Keep away from any easily damaged toys. If you’re not available to supervise, most toys should be removed from your ferret’s cage. If your ferret swallowed a piece of a damaged toy the results could be catastrophic.
Ferrets have a specific odor to them as they are part of the Mustelid family. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your ferret de-scented and neutered. Your ferret will also need vaccinations and regular exams. Talk to your vet to determine the best schedule for all shots and boosters than your pet will require.
The type of food you choose for your ferret is very important. Be sure to select either a premium quality cat food or a specially designed ferret food that does not include protein supplied by frozen meat. If you plan to change the brand of food they were receiving from the breeder do so very gradually. Steadily increase the new food while also steadily decreasing the old food until they are completely switched to the new brand. Ferrets don’t really require snacks and incorrect snack choices might cause health problems down the road. However, snacks can used as an aid for training your ferret. If you decide to give your ferret snacks, always opt for healthy options such as cooked eggs and meat. Never give your ferret a sugary treat as it will harm them.
A lot of preparation is required in order to bring your ferret home to an environment that is both safe and stress-free, for both of you.