Is A Ferret The Right Animal For You?

The ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was first domesticated over 2000 years ago, and is thought to have descended from the European polecat. It was commonly used for hunting and pest control, and now it is also trained and used to move cables around buildings, as well as being kept as a pet, of course. Due to their great intelligence and inquisitive nature, they can make entertaining pets, but require a lot of attention, and often have a distinctive smell. They can live up to 10 years if looked after correctly.

Ferret Accommodation

Ferrets sleep for over 18 hours a day but they are very active and destructive animals when awake so they need to be housed in a big secured hutch or pen, either outside or inside.

Due to their lack of sweat glands, they are more susceptible to heat exhaustion and should therefore always be protected from extreme temperatures.

Do not underestimate their curiosity if kept inside. When left alone, keep ferrets away from anything that can be chewed, eaten, or destroyed. Also bear in mind that ferrets are great escape artists, so make absolutely sure their enclosure is well-secured.

To keep these intelligent animals entertained, a multitude of toys should be available, but it's important to keep in mind that many local pet shop toys are easily destroyed by ferrets.

Ferrets can be trained to wear a harness and taken on walks, but bear in mind that they are inquisitive creatures.

Companions

Ferrets are social animals, so will be happiest in a pair or small group.

What Ferrets Eat

Ferrets are true carnivores, and need a high protein, high fat diet which most dog and cat foods cannot provide. It is therefore best to feed a dry complete ferret food. To make their diet complete they can also have raw meats like chicken, mince beef, turkey necks, rabbit, quail and more.

Water should always be freely available and changed daily.

Vaccinations

Ferrets should be routinely vaccinated once a year against distemper. Distemper is a common disease in ferrets, which generally starts with coughing, sneezing and discharges from the eyes and nose and is invariably fatal.

Parasites

Ferrets are susceptible to fleas and mites just like cats and dogs. Ear mites are a particularly common problem. Regular parasite treatment may therefore be recommended, depending on your ferret’s individual setup.

Signs of Ill Health

A healthy ferret will be bright and alert with clear open eyes, ears and nostrils. Your ferret should also be keen to eat and drink, and pass faeces regularly. It is important to become familiar with your ferret’s normal appearance, movement and behaviour, in order that signs of illness can be noticed at an early stage.

You should look out for any changes in appetite or faeces passed, as well as changes in weight, behaviour, coat condition or breathing. Other signs of illness include discharges from the eyes, nose or mouth.

Hair loss – this may be due to parasites, infection or an underlying disease such as a hormonal problem. This can be a serious concern for your ferret so should be investigated as soon as possible.

Bleeding or discharges from anywhere should be assessed by your vet.

Limping, change in grooming behaviour or wounds should be assessed by your vet.

If you have any concerns contact your vet as soon as possible.