Looking After Your Ferret
Housing
A good ferret house has room for exercise, a separate bedding area, is easy to clean and escape proof. Ferrets can be kept outside in a large rabbit hutch as long as they are exercised daily on a lead or in a secure room. An escape proof shed with attached run is most suitable. If you are keeping them indoors choose a large rat or chinchilla cage or housing specifically built for ferrets. Provide a litter tray and clean out daily.
Ferrets are social animals so if possible keep more than one. Single ferrets will need more stimulation and play.
Feeding
Ferrets feed throughout the day on frequent small meals high in protein and fat. A dry pellet food will provide all the nutrients they need. A fresh food diet will require additional minerals and vitamins. Always have fresh drinking water available.
Handling
Allow your ferret to come to you before picking it up. Grasp it around the shoulders with your fingers under the front legs and jaw. Support its hind legs with your other hand and hold against your body. Groom regularly, especially during the moulting period.
Toys & treats
Ferrets are extremely active and will enjoy playing with balls, tunnels, boxes and hammocks. Choose a suitable treat and hide them around the cage to encourage foraging.
Health
The most common illnesses for ferrets are respiratory infections, diarrhoea, mites and fleas. Gastrointestinal obstructions from foreign bodies can be a problem for young inquisitive ferrets or hairballs in adults. Ferrets should be vaccinated against Canine Distemper.
If you have any cause for concern for the health of your pet, seek veterinary advice.
You will need…
- Suitable housing/cage
- Soft bedding for small animals
- Dust free wood shavings
- Water bottle and bottle brush
- Metal or ceramic food bowl
- Suitable pet food
- Gnaw block
- Toys and treats
- Vitamin supplements
- Pet safe disinfectant
- Pet care book
