Ferret Care Sheet

You can buy a ferret from a pet store or a breeder. It is also possible to get one by driving down to the animal shelter. Since they have the ability to live for a long period of time just like your cat or dog, it is best to know what you need to do.

First, ferrets are nocturnal creatures that sleep during the day. When they wake up, you shouldn’t just tap the cage or look at them but rather let them come out so they can run around and play. When this happens, make sure that cords are secure, small items are hidden and there are no small spaces that they can squeeze into. This will prevent them from getting lost or getting hurt.

These mammals live on strict diet and you should be well aware that they are carnivores. This means they can only be fed meat or poultry products as they need a lot of protein. There are ferret food products in the market so you better stock up to avoid the mistake of settling with cat food instead.

Aside from food, ferrets need water. You can do this by putting this in a bowl or a bottle. It is advisable to put this in a bottle so the contents do not spill.

Your ferret can never be left in the house by themselves especially if you have to go out for awhile. This is what the cage is for and you can get one that measures 18” x 18” x 30” or a little bigger. The key here is that it is spacious enough for them to move around especially when as they grow.

Getting your ferret a few toys will also be good. This will be useful if you have to come home late from work so they will have something to do until you return. The toys you buy must be able to withstand their sharp teeth and then replaced if ever it is already worn out.

The only way to keep your ferret and house clean at the same time is to toilet train it so that waste is on the litter box and not on the carpet. You can do so by putting some waste inside the box and carrying them when you see that they are about to do it.

If this is done correctly, they should be rewarded with a light snack. This trick can also be done to teach them how to do some neat tricks to amuse guests that drop by and pay a visit.

The pet ferret should also be brought to the vet. States that allow you to have one require owners to give them a vaccination once a year and keep the receipts for proper documentation.

Some would say that the best time to buy a ferret is when it is very young because they are easier to train compared to those that are much older. But regardless of age, how things will go will be entirely up to you.

Ferret care is not difficult but not impossible. If you are able to handle it, then you are sure to enjoy the company of your furry friend for years to come and maybe even add another one as other have into their homes.

Suggested Ferret Diet

August 1st, 2008 by admin

I have gathered some information on proper ferret diet as often ferret owners don’t know exactly what are the best food choices for their ferrets.

At least I didn’t know anything about it when I got my ferret (you can read about this here: The ferret moves in), and then I read about it and found different theories, then I decided on my own theory based on the lots of info I found in ferret books and on the internet and unfortunately I made bad choices that could have led to the illness of my ferret.

Of course I didn’t feed him the wrong foods on purpose, I just didn’t know better. And maybe this is not the reason why he got sick, but there is a chance…

So please educate yourself like crazy so you can give your ferrets what he really needs and can use from his/ her diet.

So I start with “The Rules” … then I will list relevant links where you can read more about ferret nutrition and diet.

Ferrets are obligate (i.e.

All About Ferrets: Getting Started with Your Passion

Want to know all about ferrets but don’t know where to begin? There are millions of other ferret aficionados who are stumped with the volumes of information available at their disposal about this charming furry creatures. Whether you are trying to get a pet ferret, living with someone who is crazy about ferrets or simply interested on the nuances of these musk-producing mammals, there are a few basic things that you can consider first as you get started with your ferret passions.

Biological Structure - Ferrets are like skunk’s cousins since they are also able to produce musk. Some countries allow that the glands responsible for their musk production be cut so that they will not stink as much, but countries like UK and Australia find that this is not really necessary.

They are furry creatures with natural oils that make them shiny and smooth. Frequent bathing may remove some of these oils, but they are not really the type who resists regular showers. They also have the tendency to get long nails so a consistent nail-cutting session is in order for ferret owner wannabes.

Color, Type and Age - There are many different colors available for aspiring pet owners. Breeds are quite easy especially when the ferrets are mated with pole cats like in the old times. The younger the ferret is, the more delicate they are and difficult to maintain. But then you get the privilege to train them if you are able to acquire ownership while they are still kits.

As they grow older, they seek company of other ferrets. Older ferrets, like some adults, may actually display domination or superiority to the younger ferrets. They also have the tendency to develop cliques and may not be as open to accept new ferrets in their circle easily. .

Existing Regulations - Regulations vary from place to place, so when you are caring for your ferret, make sure that you are properly acquainted with the rules. Some countries don’t allow ferrets to be domesticated as house pets, while other allow them but not so much as to take them in the airline cargo or cabin. When traveling with your pets, ensure that the airlines of your choice will be able to transport your ferret safely.

Behavior, Habits and Idiosyncrasies - By nature, ferrets are adventurous and curious creatures. You will have to set them free from their cages at dusk or dawn so that they can roam and satiate their curiosity and be happy under your care. They like dancing in a strange manner when excited and may even look like ready to attack but in reality, they are just expressing their glee.

Maintenance - Since ferrets are highly adventurous creatures, you will have to have them checked frequently. They may have the tendency to swallow objects that can be poisonous or damaging to their digestive tracts. On top of that, they may be prey to some other animals like snakes and hawks.

Ferret facts - Ferrets haven’t been domesticated pets all that long. They were adopted as pets by the Americans only in the 1980’s. Prior to this, ferrets have been used for hunting, as they are well capable of squeezing themselves in covered grounds and tiny spaces. Their talent and natural curiosity makes them really effective aids to detectives and hunters in the ancient times especially by the Romans.

LegalizeFerrets.org in California

In case you aren't aware, Ferrets are illegal to own in the Republic of California. I happened to come across a neat site that is trying to get this nonsense changed so I thought I would share it.

There are a number of ways you can help, and you can find out everything by going to their site, to see what's required.

Imagine how great you'd feel if you knew that by helping, the Californian ferret owners manage to convince their government the errors of their ways and ferrets finally can finally come out from the shadows and happily be included in their families' lives without fear of reprisals.

Papaya Leaf Extract For Ferrets

I recently came across an interesting article about the potential cancer-fighting properties of papaya leaf extract which had been confirmed by researchers. The thing that pricked up my ears was the fact that this supplement was good for shrinking tumours in the pancreas and liver, amongst other organs.

So, first thing on Saturday morning, I ran over to health food store and got a bottle of papaya (or paw paw, as it's called here) leaf extract to give to a friend who has a ferret with cancer.

I'll keep you updated on the results.

Are Ferrets Good Pets?

Do ferrets make good pets? Some will agree to this while others will say no. But one thing for certain is that they are in demand right now and they are ranked number three as the pet to have in the home. If you are still not convinced, perhaps reading 10 good reasons will make you reconsider.

First, ferrets are cute. They come in black, brown, white or with mixed fur. They are longer than hamsters as they can grow up to 20 inches in length, 5 inches in height and weigh about 2 to 4 pounds. These creatures can live for 7 to 10 years with tender and loving care from their owner.

Second, they are very playful creatures. This will allow you to hold them instead of just looking through the glass to see what they are doing.

Third, they are very affectionate, friendly and sociable even if there is another ferret in the house.

Fourth, ferrets are intelligent animals. They can be trained to perform some tricks and toilet trained so you don’t see any litter or stain on your carpet.

Fifth, these creatures do not make a lot of noise in the noise. The only thing you have to be concerned about is cleaning up the mess that they caused.

Sixth, because ferrets are small, you don’t need to buy a huge cage. Surely, the ideal kind which measures 18” x 18” x 30” will not take that much space inside your home.

Seventh, ferrets are also easy to feed. Just make sure that what you buy contains high levels of protein and low levels of fat. This must never be rich in carbs or sugar or ever replaced with food that is intended for other animals.

Eighth, they are very curious creatures. They love to crawl to dark places like inside your pants or under the couch. They love to hide as well as jump from high places.

Ninth, every animal needs to exercise and giving your ferret a workout is not that difficult. You can take them out for a walk using a small harness.

Lastly, each ferret is different so your experience is much different with another just like the people you meet in the neighborhood.

If you are thinking of getting a ferret, you have to decide whether you want to buy one for adopt it from a shelter. You will also have to check if it is legal to own one where you live and if there is a vet that will treat it if there are any problems. You have to be one hundred percent sure you are ready to take on the responsibility because most shelters are not willing to take it back and this creature will have a hard time adjusting to the wild if you choose to set it free.

Ferrets can only survive if they are entertained and are in a safe environment. This means making your home ferret proof because they could cause serious damage to your home and harm to themselves. So although you have a cage, remember that they need to come out so both you and the creature can have some fun.

Just like other pets, they also need to be cleaned, vaccinated and undergo regular checkups.

Welcome to Ferret World

Over the last few years, ferrets have become my passion. For me, they are one of the most unique pets that you can have and one of the most devoted. Everyone says dogs are man's best friend, but I would argue that a ferret can be your best friend.

This is my main man Grover and he is one awesome ferret. My kids think he is way cooler than any dog or cat we've ever owned. When they work on our home computer, Grover sits on the back of their chair and sleeps.

I took Grover in from a local ferret rescue agency after I spent some time playing with a co-worker's ferret. I decided to go with my buddy to an open house fundraiser that the ferret rescue place was having, and walked home with the Grovemeister. I've never regretted it.

My plan is to post my experiences and some basic info on having a ferret as a pet.