Ferret Care Guide: How to Care for Pet Ferrets

If you looking for a pet that is quiet, cute, cuddly, and playful, then a pet ferret might be the right choice. Ferrets are smart, can learn their name, and can even be taught to do tricks. They are very playful and have distinctive personalities. Many people tend to mistake them for rodents, but they are actually part of the weasel family and more like a cross between a cat and a dog.

Ensuring these small animals lead a healthy life demands a deep understanding of their unique needs, from the ideal ferret diet to creating a ferret-proof play area. For those contemplating adding a furry friend to their family or current ferret owners aiming to enhance their pet’s well-being, mastering ferret care is crucial.

Scientific name

Mustela putorius furo

Native habitat

Pet ferrets were domesticated over 2000 years ago and were used to hunt vermin. They are descendants of the European polecat, also known as the common ferret, which are native to western Eurasia and north Morocco.

Lifespan

The average lifespan for a ferret is 5 to 7 years with some reaching 10 years.

Adult size

Full grown adult ferrets average 20 inches (51 cm) long, which includes a 5 inch (13 cm) tail, and they weigh 1.5 to 4 pounds (0.7–2 kg). Males are larger than females.

The name “ferret” is derived from the Latin furittus, meaning “little thief,” a likely reference to the common ferret penchant for secreting away small items

Where it is illegal to own ferrets

In the United States, it is illegal to own ferrets in California, Hawaii, Washington D.C., and New York City. Some states and cities require you to have a permit. It is best to check what the laws are where you live before you get a ferret.

How many ferrets should you keep?

Ferrets thrive in small groups. These social animals find comfort and joy in the company of their kind. I recommend keeping at least 2 ferrets. Housing multiple ferrets demands a larger enclosure, ample play area, and additional resources.

Differences between male and female ferrets

Male ferrets are called hobs or jacks, and females are called jills. Males generally grow larger and have a more robust build compared to females. Female ferrets tend to be slimmer and lighter. Behaviorally, males can display more dominance and aggression, particularly if not neutered. Females, on the other hand, might show nesting behaviors and become more territorial during their heat cycles.

Here’s a quick video on how to tell the difference between males and females.

Ferret social behavior

Ferrets are charismatic and lively companions. These small animals thrive in environments where they can engage with fellow ferrets or humans. They have a love for intricate games and exploration. It’s fascinating to observe their interactions, often characterized by a blend of curious exploration and gentle play-fighting, which underscores their need for companionship with their own kind. Whether they’re navigating through cardboard boxes or snuggling with their human or ferret friends, they consistently display a remarkable level of engagement and affection.

What time of day are ferrets active?

Ferrets are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the twilight of dawn and dusk. They tend to sleep a lot the rest of the time, sleeping around 16-18 hours a day. During their most active time, they exhibit bursts of energy, perfect for engaging in daily exercise and play. Having a ferret friend means adjusting your schedule to accommodate these active times. By setting up a ferret-proofed exercise area during these periods, you ensure your furry friend enjoys a healthy life full of adventure and fun.

A group of ferrets is commonly referred to as a “business.”

Ferret enclosure

Creating the perfect abode for a pet ferret entails more than just a spacious cage; it involves careful consideration of their active lifestyle and natural behaviors. Multi-level cages afford them the joy of climbing and helps provide more space. Daily exercise outside their home in a ferret-proofed exercise area is required for their physical and mental stimulation.

Ideal ferret enclosure size

The minimum size cage for one or two ferrets is 3 feet long x 2 feet wide x 2 feet tall. Get the biggest size cage you can. Ferrets are very active and need lots of room to play. Multi-level cages are a great way to add more space for your ferrets. You can build your own cage or buy one. Wood, glass, or fiberglass cages are NOT recommended. Ferrets require lots of ventilation and easily get heatstroke. Wire cages with plastic floors and ramps are recommended. Space between cage bars should be 1 inch or less, so they cannot get stuck in the gaps. The cage needs to be sturdy with a good lock on the door to prevent escapes.

Here are some recommend ferret cages that are suitable for 1-3 ferrets

Where in your home to keep the enclosure

Finding the perfect spot for your ferret’s home within yours demands careful thought. You’ll want to place the enclosure in an area that remains cool, away from direct sunlight, ensuring they’re comfortable during warmer seasons. Additionally, it’s vital to keep the cage in a quiet space, minimizing stress caused by loud noises. Interaction with family members should also be a top consideration. A living room or similar space, where you spend a lot of your time, can be ideal, fostering social interaction yet providing a safe, comfortable retreat for your playful pets.

Ideal temperature

Ferrets do not tolerate heat at all. The American Ferret Association says their comfort range is 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. I would recommend aiming for 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 23.8 degrees Celsius). They cannot tolerate temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 Celsius). Higher temperatures can lead to heatstroke which can be fatal.

Floor Covering

If your cage has any metal bars for the floors or ramps, you definitely want to cover them up to prevent foot injuries. If the flooring is hard plastic, you can add floor coverings for comfort. There are several options you can use to line the floor of your ferret cage. You want something that you can easily wash and that your ferret’s nails will not snag on. My favorite to use is fleece, which is very affordable. You can cut it to the size you need, and you can get it all different patterns and colors. You can also find specially made liners that fit a specific cage (for example, this accessory kit for the Ferret Nation cage). Other options are carpet, sheets, blankets, or towels.

You want to stay away from wood shavings of any kind as they can cause respiratory problems in ferrets.

Ferrets have a range of vocalizations, including chirping, hissing, and a distinctive “dooking” noise when they are excited or playful.

Litter box

Ferrets can be litter trained. You will need a litter box that has high sides and one low side like this ferret litter pan. For the litter material, you want to use recycled paper or wood pellets. Do not use clay litter as it is not safe for ferrets. Another option is to use puppy pads.

Food and water bowls

For food and water bowls, you need something that cannot be tipped over. You can use something with a good base to keep them from flipping over like this food and water bowl set or you can use heavy ceramic bowls.

Do not use water bottles that hang on the side and are used for hamsters or guinea pigs. They cannot get as much water out of them at a time like they can a bowl, and the metal spout can cause severe damage to their teeth.

Hiding and sleeping places

Ferrets love to burrow and have a comfy place to sleep. There are many options such as hammocks, sleep sacks, soft comfy tunnels, and even small dog and cat beds. Giving them your old shirts to burrow in is another great idea and may even end up being their favorite!

Ferret toys

Ferrets love to play and need mental stimulation. They are smart, curious creatures and thrive with a variety of toys that engage their senses and encourage play. However, it’s crucial to avoid any toys with small parts or parts that could break off, which your ferrets could accidentally swallow. This precaution prevents potential choking hazards or internal blockages. Always inspect toys regularly for signs of wear and replace as needed.

Ferrets love to run through tunnels. You can purchase tunnels, or you can create your own tunnels using PVC pipe or corrugated drain pipes from the hardware store.

You can make places for them to explore with cardboard boxes, connecting them together to make something interesting. They can also play with shipping envelopes and paper bags.

This octopus toy can be used to sleep in or play in.

They also love hard plastic balls, crinkle balls, ping pong balls, hard plastic toys for babies such as rattles and teething rings, playhouses and tents, some dog and cat toys.

You can make them a ball pit using a cardboard or plastic box and filling it with balls.

This is an excellent video on how to set up your ferret cage with some really good tips!

Enclosure cleaning and maintenance

Maintaining a hygienic environment for your ferret friend ensures they live a healthy life. Always provide fresh water and clean food bowls daily to avoid build-up of harmful bacteria and keep the litter box clean. Once every week, scrub the ferret’s cage thoroughly and wash the bedding. This regimen prevents odors and ensures a safe environment. Adhering to a strict cleaning schedule also keeps those musky odors at bay, making close quarters with your ferret more pleasant.

Ferret Diet

Ferrets are carnivores and require a diet rich in animal protein and fat and low in carbohydrates. They are unable to digest plant fibers. In the wild, they would eat an entire animal carcass.

An ideal diet would be a raw meat diet that is human grade quality. Chicken, turkey, pork, beef, and lamb are good choices. You can also buy frozen mice from pet stores to feed them.

For dry food, there are packaged ferret diets available. You should look for ones that have 32-40% animal protein and 20% fat on a caloric basis and avoid any that have corn or grain fillers. Mazuri is a high-quality food used by zoos.

Ferrets like to eat several times a day, so it is a good idea to have some dry food available all the time. Feed raw meat daily, but only leave it out for about an hour at a time as it will go bad if left too long.

For treats, you can give raw or cooked egg and chicken pieces.

Ferret odor

Ferrets naturally carry a musky scent, a product of their anal glands. Neutering or spaying can reduce this odor significantly. A high quality diet will also minimize unwanted smells. Ferrets need fresh water and clean living spaces; failing to provide these can boost the strength of their natural scent. Regular cleaning of bedding and the ferret’s cage, combined with occasional baths (not more than once a month), can keep the musky odor at bay.

Ferret fur and shedding

Ferrets have two coats of fur. They have an undercoat of soft, dense fur for insulation and a top coat of longer, thicker hair that helps repel dirt and liquid. Ferrets shed their coats twice a year with the change of seasons in spring and fall for their summer and winter coats.

You can help your ferret along during shedding season by brushing once a day using a ferret brush or a cat brush. You can also bathe your ferret to help with shedding, but don’t bathe more often than once a month and only when really necessary. Most ferrets don’t enjoy baths, and bathing too often will result in dry skin.

It’s a good idea to brush your ferret once or twice a week in between shedding season to get rid of any loose hairs. A high-quality diet will help ensure the coat remains glossy and minimize shedding. Omega-3 supplements can also support healthy skin and fur. I recommend 1/4 tsp (or 1 mL) of salmon oil daily.

Bathing and nail trimming

Occasionally, you may need to bathe your ferret. If you keep their cage and bedding clean, you won’t need to do it too often. Do not bathe your ferret more than once a month as it will dry out their skin and hair too much and can actually make them smell worse. You can use a gentle shampoo made specifically for ferrets, kitten shampoo, or tear-free baby shampoo.

Your ferret’s nails will also need to be trimmed regularly, every couple of weeks or so. It prevents those sharp claws from getting tangled in bedding or causing unintentional scratches. You can use cat or small animal nail clippers. These are the clippers I use for my small animals and they have worked well for me. It is a good idea to keep some styptic powder available just in case you cut too short so you can stop the bleeding quickly. To ease the nail trimming process, ensure a calm environment. Treats as a reward after each session can transform these necessities into positive experiences.

Ferrets have long, slender bodies and are incredibly flexible. They can squeeze into tight spaces and contort their bodies to navigate through small openings.

Ear cleaning

Ferrets should have their ears cleaned every few weeks and some may need it every week. You just need ear cleaning solution and cotton swabs. To clean a ferret’s ears, first, gently restrain the ferret to prevent sudden movements. Then, using a cotton swab moistened with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution, carefully wipe the visible parts of the ear, avoiding insertion into the ear canal. Be sure to praise and reward your ferret for cooperation during the process to make future cleanings easier. If you notice any unusual discharge, odor, or signs of discomfort, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment.

Ferret death sleep

This could freak you out the first time you witness it. Sometimes ferrets can sleep so deeply you can’t wake them up. It’s like they are dead! You can pick them up and they will be completely limp and will not wake up for several minutes. This is a completely normal aspect of a ferret’s sleep cycle. Some ferrets do it more often than others.

To check that your ferret is still alive, you can feel in its armpit for a pulse, make sure it is warm, check for breathing (it might be very shallow and hard to see). It should wake up on its own after a little while, but you can try putting some of its favorite food in front of its nose.

Ferret health

Regular veterinary care is crucial in preventing common conditions before they escalate. Good health practices include annual or semi-annual visits to a ferret-knowledgeable vet, recommended vaccines, and preventive measures against heart disease and canine distemper.

Adrenal gland disease is a condition to watch out for. Signs can include hair loss or itchiness. Females may have an enlarged vulva, and males may have difficulty urinating.

Another condition to watch out for is insulinoma (tumor in the pancreas). Signs include lethargy, collapse, hindlimb weakness, and seizures.

If you see any signs of these conditions, take your ferret to the vet immediately.

Vaccinations

Ferrets do require vaccinations just like a cat or dog. Before taking your ferret home, make sure that your ferret has been given the necessary vaccinations. They require a series of distemper vaccinations when they are young and then they get an annual booster. They also require rabies vaccinations at 12 weeks of age and then annually.

Heartworm

Just like dogs and cats, ferrets can be infected by this parasite. Heartworms can cause heart failure and death, so it is best to prevent them. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes. Talk to your veterinarian about how often you need to give the medication. Depending on where you live, you may need to give it all year long.

Spaying/neutering

If you are not planning on breeding your ferrets, you should spay/neuter them, even if you only have one ferret. For females, this is especially important.

When female ferrets go into heat, they stay in heat until they are bred. Due to the constant hormones from being in heat all the time, they can develop aplastic anemia which in most cases is fatal.

When male ferrets go into rut, they are not very fun to be around. They get territorial, aggressive, smell really bad, and mark their territory everywhere with their foul-smelling ferret cologne.

Historically, ferrets were used for hunting rabbits, rats, and other small game. Their natural agility, speed, and sharp teeth make them effective hunters.

Ferret handling

Ferrets demand patience and care in handling. Gaining their trust becomes key, ensuring a bond that lasts throughout their lives. Initially, approach your pet with calm and steady movements to prevent startling them. Scooping them gently, support their full body – one hand under the chest and the other supporting their hindquarters. This method comforts your ferret, securing them safely during interaction. Remember, quick movements or loud noises can scare them, potentially leading to scratches or bites out of fear. Consistent, gentle handling will teach your ferret to associate you with safety, forming a lasting friendship.

Time out of cage

Ferrets require time out of their cage every day so they can explore and get the exercise they need. Ferrets are very curious and can get into all kinds of places, so they should not be left unsupervised. It’s a good idea to ferret proof any area they will be in and put baby locks on cupboards and places you don’t want your ferret to get into.

You can also have your ferret wear a collar or harness with a bell attached so you can keep track of it while out of its cage.

Another option is to use a playpen to provide a safe area to play outside of the cage. You can add interactive toys for an extra layer of mental stimulation for their play sessions.

Can ferrets get along with other pets?

Introducing a pet ferret into a household with other small animals, such as guinea pigs, birds, or other small pets, requires caution as ferrets possess a natural hunting instinct which would put these other pets at risk. They might see smaller companions as prey rather than pals. Ensuring a safe environment means keeping them apart. On the other hand, ferrets often find common ground with larger pets such as dogs and cats. Nevertheless, direct interactions should always occur under watchful eyes. This prevents any incidents stemming from misunderstanding or rough play.