Should You Own a Ferret?

Ferrets are good, loyal pets but should you have one? Ferrets require a lot of work. If you don't have the time, I wouldn't recommend getting a ferret. Ferrets are like toddlers who never grow up.

Ferrets require being out of their cage and played with three to four hours a day. If you don't let it out or play with it the ferret will become ill or depressed. If you really want a ferret but don't have the time, think about getting two ferrets so they don't get lonely.

Ferrets are animals that need to be trained. You can litter box train them. They need to be trained not to nip if you get them as babies. Even some older ferrets need to be trained though. The chances of a ferret bite are extremely low. You have a bigger chance of getting bit by a dog. You can also teach the ferret to come when you call it. They respond best to squeaky toys.

You also need to ferret-proof your home so that it doesn't get destroyed and the ferret doesn't hurt itself. Ferrets are notorious for taking things and hiding them. They're attracted to remotes, cell phones, car keys, etc. You need to make sure that the ferret can't get into the cushions in furniture or underneath the refridgerator.

Ferrets are carnivores so they need a strict diet. Ferret food high in protein and fat and chicken or lamb based is best for the growing ferret. They need ferret food. Substitutions don't work. If it's not possible to give them ferret food, talk to your vet and see what they recommend.

You need to set aside time for grooming your ferret. It's not time consuming but it needs to be done on a regular basis for health reasons. Grooming consists of nail clipping, brushing, ear cleaning, bathing, and brushing their teeth. Nail clipping needs to be done to ensure that the nails don't get so long that the ferret can't walk. Ferret nails should be checked at least once or twice a week. Brushing should be done regularly to prevent hair balls. Ferrets also have shedding seasons in fall and spring when brushing needs to be done a lot. Ear cleaning needs to be done when there is wax built up, so check the ferret's ears weekly. Bathing should be done once a month, along with teeth cleaning.

If you have little children or other pets, you want to supervise the interactions they have. Little children don't always know how to handle animals and the ferret may nip out of fear. Ferrets and cat usually get along. Certain types of dogs get along with ferrets. Others don't and the dog will attack the ferret. If you have a bird or other small animals, watch closely because ferrets usually consider these food and it will try and get them.

There are many health problems that ferrets can get if not properly taken care of. If the ferret is not going to be used for breeding it must be spayed or neutered to ensure health problems don't arise. Ferrets also need descented, otherwise, they have a musky odor. If in fear, they release a foul odor similar to skunks.

Ferrets can be really good pets if properly taken care of, so ensure you have the time and money for a ferret before getting one.