Ferret Care

   Ferrets, Mustela putorius, belong to the same family as skunks and minks.  They are very playful and active pets, and love to interact with people and other animals.  Because of their sociable and energetic nature, ferrets require a great deal of time and attention from their owners.

   Ferrets should be housed in a cage, not an aquarium.  If the floor is wire, it must be covered in plenty of non-cedar bedding in order to protect the feet from injury.   Hammocks and towels provided good sleeping and hiding places.  Ferrets can be litter box trained.   A litter box should be placed in the cage and in the corners of any rooms to which the ferret has free access.

   A ferret’s energy level requires periods of exercise outside of the cage, but because of their mischievous nature, they should be supervised and their play rooms “ferret proofed.”  Ferrets can and do escape to the outdoors!

   The dietary requirements of the ferret are still being studied, but we do know they need a meat-based diet high in protein.  Carbohydrates (e.g., fruits or sugary treats) should be avoided.  While controversy exists in dietary recommendations, a high quality ferret diet or cat food is recommended.

   Most ferrets in this country have been spayed or neutered prior to being sold and their scent glands removed.  If your pet has not been spayed, neutered or descented, you should consult your veterinarian regarding the health concerns associated with intact ferrets.

   Your ferret should be examined yearly and, in most cases, vaccinated against rabies and distemper virus.  Ferrets are also susceptible to adrenal gland disease, insulin secreting pancreatic tumors (insulinomas) and other cancers, as well as human flu viruses.  Gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcers and foreign body ingestion also occur.  While the average life span of a ferret is five to eight years, geriatric (old age) diseases in ferrets can occur as early as 3 years of age.  Yearly exams can help identify these problems early and therapy can be initiated to keep your ferret healthy.

Links to more information is available on our reference page.

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