Overview of Ferrets
The ferret is a domesticated species with black, brown, white, or mixed fur. Males tend to be quite larger then the female, averaging 20 inches (51 centimeter) in length, including that of a 5 inch (13 centimeter) tail. Although ferrets have been around for nearly 2,500 years, there are still many fascinating facts about these carnivorous mammals that many people are unaware of.
Dead Sleep
Similar to other small creatures, ferrets tend to sleep 14 to 18 hours a day consisting of 2 to 6 hour periods. Some owners may find their pet in a comatose state known as “dead sleep”. When this occurs, the ferret remains warm but has very shallow breathing and will not awake if nudged or shaken. When an owner experiences a situation of “dead sleep” in their ferret, they may fear that their pet has died. However, the ferret will awaken so it’s important to check for breathing carefully to determine if this is the case.
Ferrets at Birth
The color of ferrets can greatly range from white, black, gray, brown, silver, sable, or a combination of several colors. Some common characteristics of ferrets include albino species that feature white fur with pink eyes. Others have patterns, such as a white head (panda), white feet (mitts), dark legs and tail (Siamese), or white blaze (badger). The interesting fact about ferrets at birth is that all ferrets, no matter the specific breed, are born completely white.
Nutrition
Many people mistaken ferrets as a type of rodent. However, this is not true as many ferrets actually feed on rodents. Ferrets are natural born carnivores and are physically unable to produce the enzymes required to digest plant matter, fruits, and vegetables. Therefore, these creatures must be provided nutrition through meat sources.
Sexual Maturity
Ferrets generally reach sexual maturity between 5 and 6 months of age. Similar to cats and dogs, ferrets should be spayed or neutered at this time to prevent breeding. However, there are other important reasons for spaying and neutering at this time. Females who are not spayed have a very high risk of contracting a disease known as Aplastic Anaemia. In many cases, this disease results in death. Males that are not neutered tend to give off a very strong smell and may become aggressive.
Domestication
Studies have shown that ferrets that have become domesticated are unable to live in the wild thereafter. Surprisingly, this is true for most animals that have been bred for human purposes. Over 2,500 years ago before ferrets become domesticated, they were used for hunting.
In Conclusion
There are many interesting ferret facts that are not known by the general public. Ferrets have become an increasingly popular pet and it’s important to know as much as you can about this mammal before purchasing one to care for. These unusual facts are important to know for proper ferret health care.
References
For more information on ferrets, visit:
• Ferret Facts
• Ferret Information
• Interesting Ferret Facts
