Ferret

A ferret is a good companion for:

Children under 5

Seniors

Apartments/Condos

Children ages 5–11

Busy People

Rural Homes

Life Span

A ferret can enjoy a life span of up to eight years, if properly cared for.

Typical Behavior

Ferrets are very curious, playful, mischievous and intelligent. Ferrets love to learn new tricks and are relatively easy to train. They can be taught to communicate with their owners through noises and body language and to use a litter box. Juvenile ferrets, called kits, tend to nip frequently but can be broken of this habit through proper training. Ferrets sleep a large part of the day, up to 18 hours. However, when they are awake they like to be very active. Their strong nesting instincts make them great diggers and collectors, so watch your household items closely. Ferrets have an unfair reputation for being extremely smelly. They do have a musky odor; however, it is not normally offensive.

Care Requirements

A ferret requires daily care. Its water should be changed every day and any wet bedding should be removed. They need attention and stimulation when they are awake.

Once a week, a ferret’s habitat should be completely cleaned and washed with soap and water. Be sure to completely rinse the enclosure and any accessories.

A ferret has a naturally musky odor that requires a monthly bath. Ferret shampoo can be purchased at any local pet store that sells ferret products. Their ears need to be cleaned with a soft cloth or cotton ball on the outside and cleaning solutions inside. To help keep their shiny coat, a daily brushing with a soft brush is recommended.

Proper Habitat and Habitat Maintenance Requirements

A ferret needs a large wire, multi-level, well-ventilated habitat. Ferrets are great escape artist so finding a cage that has small slats and a secure door is preferable.

Dietary Requirements

A high quality ferret food is recommended and can be found in most pet supply stores. Ferrets need protein-rich food with low fiber content for proper health.

Always avoid giving your ferret chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, nuts, seed and salty foods. These items can cause life-threatening health problems.

Financial Considerations for a Ferret:

Veterinary

If your ferret is cared for properly, you will not need to take it to see a veterinarian more than once a year for an annual checkup. The cost for a checkup on a ferret usually will be no more than $40, as long as there are no health-related issues.

Grooming

If you do not feel comfortable bathing your ferret, you can find a veterinarian or groomer that will provide this service for you. The average cost for grooming is $35.

Animal Sitter

Ferrets are pretty easy to care for, so finding a sitter should be easy. The hardest part is finding someone who isn't afraid of them.

Food

A high quality food will usually cost $12 a bag. A bag of food can last for several months if stored in an air-tight container. Be sure to purchase food specifically for ferrets.

Other Supplies:

Generally, a ferret will require a multi-level habitat, a hammock, a litter box, tubes to crawl in, toys, a harness and leash, shampoo and a brush.

Interesting Facts about Ferret:

• Ferrets can sleep up to 18 hours per day.
• Ferrets can be trained to do tricks and come when called by their name.
• Ferrets are illegal to own without proper permits in California.
• Female ferrets are called jills and can grow to be 13-14 inches long.
• Males ferrets are called hobs and can grow to be 15-16 inches long.
• Ferrets are frequently most active at dawn and dusk.