| Should I adopt a ferret? | | | | Twice a day is better, but make sure it is replaced at |
| Is there a ferret in your future? Ferrets make | | | | least once a day. |
| exceptional pets, but they are different than most of | | | | Most dogs or cats can have the run of the house |
| the pets that normally think of such as dogs, cats, | | | | once they are house trained, but your ferret will |
| rodents or rabbits. You should become aware of the | | | | need a safe place to run and play while you are not |
| special needs of a ferret before you decide to | | | | actively watching them. Most pet stores have a |
| become a ferret parent. One of the most important | | | | variety of cages designed for ferrets, or you can |
| differences between ferrets and other pets is that | | | | look online for more choices. Just make sure that |
| they will not do well if they can not come out of | | | | they have lots of room and lots of levels to explore. |
| their cage often. While a rabbit or guinea pig might | | | | If you plan ahead and get a ferret specific cage, you |
| survive quite well in a cage 24/7 - your ferret needs | | | | won't have to worry about them squeezing out of |
| to roam and romp about on a regular basis. If you | | | | the cage, or getting their sensitive little feet caught in |
| can't or are not willing to spend time with your ferret | | | | the flooring. |
| every day, then let me suggest that some less | | | | Ferrets love to play, but there is one thing they love |
| exotic pet may be best for you. | | | | more. They love to SLEEP. They can sleep up to 20 |
| Another unique difference is that ferrets have a | | | | hours a day and they need a dark hideaway to do it. |
| distinct musky odor. I for one find it noticeable but | | | | You can help them by covering their cage with a |
| not unpleasant, but for some, this could be a deal | | | | towel when you are away, and by purchasing a sleep |
| breaker. De-scenting is a possibility, but will be an | | | | sack or hammock for them to lounge away the day |
| added expense once your ferret reaches adulthood. | | | | in. Oh the life of the domestic ferret! |
| You will also need to get your pet ferret spayed or | | | | There is one more thing that your ferret loves to do. |
| neutered. Keep in mind that regular checkups and | | | | They love to chew on anything they can get their |
| vaccinations are required as well. | | | | teeth into. This is one of the reasons you can't let |
| Your ferrets diet will also be of concern to you. You | | | | them out of their cage without supervision. If they |
| can get quality ferret food at your local pet store, | | | | chew and swallow the wrong things, it can cause |
| but it will cost you a bit more and you won't have | | | | terrible problems with their bowels and sometimes |
| the convenience of picking it up at your local grocer. | | | | surgery is the only option. Provide them with |
| You can substitute good quality cat food, but you'd | | | | chewable toys in their cage and always monitor them |
| probably have to go to a pet store for that as well. | | | | if they are roaming through your house. |
| When you look for food, keep in mind that your | | | | Did you know that ferrets can be litter trained just |
| ferret is a carnivore and needs a high protein, high | | | | like cats? The more time you spend with your ferret, |
| fat diet. Check the ingredients for at least 35% | | | | the easier they will be to train. They are very social |
| protein and 20% fat. Also, getting the essential fatty | | | | and cuddly little animals and you will be amazed at |
| acids is important and these can only be found in | | | | their ability to learn when you take the time to work |
| balanced fat like poultry fats. Just read the labels for | | | | with them. And litter training will be a blessing for you |
| your ferret like you would for your family and you'll | | | | as well as for them - take my word for it. Plan to |
| be fine. | | | | spend time every day and let your little furball out of |
| It is essential that your ferret have a fresh supply of | | | | his cage while you can watch him. His antics will |
| water that can be changed at least once a day. | | | | reward you I promise. |