Bouncy and playful, owning a ferret is much like owning a kitten that never grows up. Keep your furry friend happy and health with just a few basic steps for ferret care.
First and foremost with any new pet, make sure you have your ferret spayed or neutered, if they have not been already. Male ferrets can be aggressive if they are not fixed and female ferrets run the risk of developing aplastic anemia which will cause death.
While you are at the veterinarian, you may also choose to have your ferret descented. The procedure involves the removal of the scent glands which give off a musk scent when the animal is scared, much like a skunk. But keep in mind, this is not really necessary. Even with the glands removed, the ferret will still have a strong, natural odor emanating from their oil glands. You need to be prepared for this before you choose a ferret as a pet. Bi-monthly baths will help curb the odor.
Ferret food is available at most pet stores and usually consists of pellets which are formulated to include the nutrients your animal needs. Make sure you buy food made exclusively for ferrets. These animals are carnivores so rabbit food, some cat foods and others can make them sick as they are unable to digest plant and vegetable matter. Treats should be given in moderation and can include a ferret treat mix you get at the store, bits of cooked meat, or hard boiled eggs. Fresh water should always be available as well.
Purchase a cage that is big enough for your pet to run around in and easy for you to clean. Sturdy wire cages with slide-out bottoms work well. Buy a corner litter box, toys and give your ferret something soft to sleep on, like a small pet bed. Keep in mind, ferrets can sleep up to 18 hours a day. Do not be alarmed by this; just know that when they wake up, they will want to play!
There are a few more things to know about your pet ferret. Ferrets live to be about 6-8 years old and are most active at dawn and dusk. Also, ferrets have poor eyesight, so do not allow them to climb onto anything high off the ground as they may not be able to judge the distance below. They can fall and injure themselves. Male ferrets are usually larger and have a stronger scent than females. Remember that when choosing your pet.
And as with any pet, be sure to make regular visits to the veterinarian and keep their shots up to date. A distemper vaccine is essential as this disease is usually 100% fatal. Also, keep your ferret away from sick humans. They can catch the common cold and other viruses just like we do. Wash your hands often before and after handling your pet and if possible, have only a healthy person handle and feed them.
Now that you have the basics, you can look forward to hours of entertainment with your pet ferret!
