| Ferrets
can live 5-10 years. They are nocturnal animals, sleeping during
the day and becoming active during the night. ferrets do have
a tendency to nap at any time, making them an ideal pet, as they
are more than willing to wake up when you're available to play.
For the most part, your ferret(s) should be confined in a roomy
cage that has proven escape proof, with built-in water supply,
food, and litter box. You can let your ferrets run free for periods
of time but only under strict supervision as they are prone to
chewing on electrical cords, carrying away and hiding small objects,
and eating various things that may need surgical removal later
on. It is very important to 'ferret proof' the area, closing
all access to the outdoors, under furniture, cabinets, into walls,
etc. Also, ferrets can jump or climb to fairly high places (often
referred to as teleporting, as no visible means can be found),
but can injure themselves jumping down. Exercise is also an important
part of a healthy life for your ferret(s).
Catching your pet when it is
running free takes patience. The best method is to train
your pet to respond to a squeaky toy, using rewards such
as raisins or ferretone. Then when you squeak the toy it
will come running to you. Chasing a ferret to catch it only
causes your ferret to think you are playing. Ferrets are
intelligent and can be taught other small tricks, such as
rolling over, fetch, and playing dead.
Feeding
Ferrets are obligate carnivores. For the first three years, your
ferret should be on a good premium kitten food, and/or one of
the ferret foods currently available. After three years of age,
a premium quality cat food and/or ferret food should be offered
gradually. If possible, a variety of foods should be available
to supply the greatest range of nutrients. Food should be available
at all times, as ferrets tend to eat fairly often and hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar) can cause convulsions and other health problems.
Your pet must also have clean fresh water daily, any left over
from the previous day should be removed and containers rinsed
before refilling.
Most ferrets respond well to treats, and this can be a rewarding interaction. They learn to respond quickly to the shaking of a box or bag. There are a great variety of treats specifically made more ferrets at local pet shops. Go light on these snacks. It is always better to underfeed treats than to overfeed treats.
Some food comparison charts:
from
the Northern Ohio Ferret Association, MD
Ferret Paws,
and
The
Ferret Store. |
Climate and Housing
Your ferret should be kept in a comfortable temperature, approx.
55-70F. Temperatures over 90F can be fatal. In warm weather, the
cage should be in an air-conditioned room or have towel wrapped
ice packs (1 liter soda bottles work well) placed in the cage.
Selection the properly constructed
cage is important. The larger the cage, the better, but be
sure the spacing between the bars is small enough that a small
ferret can not escape. (Less than 1.5 inches in most cases)
Many companies now make cages specifically for ferrets - be
sure to check for sharp edges and wide openings. The food bowls
will need to be secured to the cage as ferrets are notorious
for tipping them over. Water bottles that clip on the side
of the cage work very well. A hammock or pile of soft cloths
(such as towels or old sweatshirts) should be provided for
bedding.
Ferrets tend to relieve themselves
in corners, making them fairly easy to litter train. A litter
box in 1-2 corners of the cage will usually do the trick, though
expect the occasional 'accident'. DO NOT USE CEDAR
OR PINE SHAVINGS - They are hazardous to your ferrets
health. These cause fumes that can irritate and depress the
immune system of the respiratory tract of a ferret. Bedding
should be changed frequently (at least once a week) to reduce odor.
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