Ferret Care Sheet

The ferret is a domestic pet. They are not wild animals, but they are close relatives of skunks, mink, otters and badgers. Ferrets are inquisitive, lively and charming little creatures that have captured the hearts of thousands of people around the world. They make wonderful pets because of their engaging personalities, playful activity and fastidious nature. Domestic ferrets are generally easy to handle and are not aggressive. There is no innate animosity between ferrets and dogs and cats and all can share a household with little difficulty.

Like any animal, ferrets need exercise to develop strong bones and muscles as well as for healthy mental activity. They should not be caged 24 hours a day. Ferrets are very high strung and require a lot of exercise with a minimum of three hours out of cage time. They do require constant monitoring for safety because they are notorious for getting into trouble. Ferrets are naturally inquisitive and can squeeze through very small spaces. It is important to “ferret-proof” your house before bringing your pet home by making sure all openings wider than one inch in diameter are sealed and toxic substances such as plants, household cleaners and insecticides are moved out of harms way. Because ferrets are so small and silent, you often won’t hear them approach. We recommend getting a collar with a bell on it to help you hear your ferret when it is not in its cage.

When your ferret cannot be adequately supervised, it should be confined in a cage. Their cage should be made of a wire mesh and should be a minimum of 24”x24”x18” high for up to two ferrets. Aquariums are not recommended because of their poor ventilation. The cage can be multi-leveled to add space for plenty of movement. The cage floor can be solid, but should be waterproof and easy to clean.

Ferrets love to tunnel into something warm and fall asleep. They should have something in their cage for them to curl up into. Hammocks, socks, stocking caps or a soft towel all make wonderful beds for them.

Most ferrets can be litter box trained. A small, low-sided box should be placed in a corner of the cage. You should also have multiple litter boxes available around the house for them to use when they are exercising out of their cage. Ferrets will not travel far to a litter box, so have a few near. Do not use clay or clumping litter in the box because ferrets like to burrow and play in the clean litter and dust from the litter is damaging to the fur. We recommend using a thin layer of pelleted litter. Ferrets back up to a vertical surface to defecate and urinate, so be sure not to fill the litter box to the top. They also do not cover up their waste, so it will be necessary to change litter material often to minimize stool odor.

Ferrets love to play and there are many toys that will keep a ferret happy. Never use latex or foam rubber toys because ferrets like to chew on and swallow these products possibly resulting in an intestinal obstruction. More appropriate toys are the tunnel type, which could include dryer hoses, paper bags or PVC pipe. They also love to play with toys that simulate moving prey, including ping pong balls, small metal cans, golf balls or cat toys on springs that hang. Ferrets can get pleasure from the simplest toys. You will enjoy watching and playing with your ferret.

Ferrets are strict carnivores, meaning they are designed to eat whole prey items, which includes all parts of the killed animal. Commercial diets specifically formulated for ferrets are recommended. However, feeding a high quality, commercial cat food can easily satisfy the dietary requirements of ferrets. The growth or kitten formula, composed of high quality meat protein, is preferred. Ferrets cannot handle diets that are high in fiber. Fruits and vegetables may be offered in very limited quantities. Do not feed milk and foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates because ferrets have a difficult time digesting these foods. Ferrets tend to eat many small meals a day and carry the excess to a special spot to eat later. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Water bottles or heavy ceramic dishes can be used for this purpose.

Ferrets may have an objectionable odor. Most ferrets have their scent glands removed at a very young age and usually before being sold to you. Spaying and neutering your ferret can also help to control odor.

Be sure to read all the information you can, “ferret-proof” your house and discuss any questions you may have with your veterinarian before purchasing your ferret. Ferrets are good natured, playful, non-aggressive and non-territorial pets. They are very active and curious animals that enjoy the company of humans and other animals. Ferrets also maintain their playfulness throughout their lives, which can be up to 10 years. You and your ferret will love the interaction you have with each other.