Raising a pet ferret isn’t something that you should take for granted. Though they are adorable and cuddly creatures, they still require lots of attention. And to remain healthy and happy, they also need quality care and comfortable shelter or ferret cage.

Whether or not you have a ferret at home, these tips should help you in caring for one:

1. Provide them with proper housing.

Ferrets need a cage that is huge enough to house a sleeping area and a bathroom. They should also have comfortable spaces, such as a hammock, where they can climb on or play, or a harness for training.

Even if these tiny creatures love to cuddle together, space is still very important. So, when choosing a cage, make sure each of them has at least one bed area. This way, they’ll know they don’t have to fight for a resting area.

2. Keep their enclosures clean.

Cleanliness is something that should be taken into account when raising a pet ferret. If you have one ferret at home, then its cage has to be cleaned every other day. Otherwise, you need to clean it on a daily basis so as to avoid health risks brought about by the foul odor.

When cleaning the ferret enclosure, always make it a habit to use a cleaner that is safe for them. There are plenty of these cleaners sold in pet stores, so make sure you ask if you aren’t sure about the product you are using. You don’t want your pets and your family members to suffer the consequences.

Once the cage is clean and dry, you need to wash other pet ferret accessories, such as the beds, sleeping bags, and hammocks. If you are planning to hand-wash these things, it is advised that you use hot water.

3. Feed them properly.

Before you decide on what to feed your pets, it is advised that you obtain an appropriate feeding container. If possible, get something that prevents spillage of food and water, something that is heavy and durable. This is because these animals are very playful and they might accidentally hit it.

After choosing a container, make sure you give them fresh food. Providing them with such is essential as it gives them the amount of nutrients they need, such as fat and protein.

Because ferrets are carnivores, their food should not contain sugar and carbohydrates. If you don’t know any possible ferret food, you can always visit the pet store to look for raw animals to feed them.

There are certain foods that make them feel sick, which include chocolates, milk, grains, cat food, and dog food. Therefore, it is important that you avoid giving it to them. You don’t want them to suffer from various illnesses like diarrhea.

Ferrets also need access to fresh water every day, or else, they will dehydrate. Though vets recommend to use a water softener, you can always give them bottled water.

4. Provide them with sufficient nutrients.

Ferrets are intelligent and social creatures, which means they need lots of attention and playtime. Hence, you need to let them out of its cage once in a while. This way, they won’t feel bored. Here is something that every pet owner must remember. A ferret needs at least four hours of playtime a day.

If you can’t put them out, you can provide them with toys to play with instead. But, make sure you switch out toys every other day.

Even though they are energetic and playful, they still need lots of attention to become healthy. If they are kept inside their enclosures the whole day, the tendency is that they will destroy the cage or cause damage to themselves. And, you don’t want them to do that.

5. Consider their overall health.

Just like other pets, ferrets also require frequent visits to the vet. By doing so, you can keep them from getting sick and help them avoid catching illnesses.

When it comes to vaccinations, ferrets are prone to allergic reactions. And, these reactions can be very deadly. Unless they are necessary, try to avoid them. However, if you are really worried whether or not to vaccinate them, you can consult the veterinarian.

6. Always keep them clean.

Bathing them regularly can result in an over activated stink gland or dry skin, which means they could smell even more. While some people advise not bathing them at all, others believe to have them washed only if they get dirty by accident.

The coat of a ferret is essential for its health. Although it is soft and full, it doesn’t really have a bad odor. If you happen to notice excessive hair is missing, then it is about time to see the vet as this suggests an underlying health problem.

Apparently, these energetic and intelligent little creatures are a huge responsibility. Not only do they require more care than the typical pets like dogs and cats, they also have a strict diet to follow. Nevertheless, having a pet ferret is something that you might want to consider in the future as they can become excellent additions to the family.

Image Sources: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]