by Nathan Bright

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: March 06, 2009

Ferrets are very curious creatures, figuratively and quite literally. They love getting into places where they shouldn't, and love taking things that don't belong to them, only to have said items turn up in your closet or under your bed where you can't reach them. Despite their playful and fun-loving nature, ferrets are given a bad reputation for being called "mean" and "stinky". While these adjectives CAN be characteristics of the furry little brats sometimes, it's not necessarily a trait of the entire species.

There are several different factors that can attribute to a ferret's personality. One of them, and probably the most important, is how the animal is treated in the home. If the little critter receives plenty of attention and is not handled too roughly, they can be a joy to have as members of your family. They make great pets for kids in the 13 to 16 year old range who want to take on some responsibility, and keeping a ferret can be a fun way to do so. It is important to have your ferret (or ferrets) socialize as much as possible. One of the main causes of a ferret developing a nasty biting habit is lack of interaction with people. Also, having another ferret friend for them to play with is a great idea for when you don't have time to play yourself.

Many people also believe ferrets to be smelly, unsanitary creatures. For the most part this statement is false. Yes, ferrets have an odor, but what animal do you know of does not? One thing that most people do not take into consideration when discussing a ferret's "stink" is the animal's cage (if it is kept in one, that is). If the cage or other living quarters is kept unkempt it can develop a rather unpleasant odor as well as attract unwanted pests such as flies. That is why keeping the potty area of your ferret clean is a vital part of taking care of it. I would recommend cleaning waste corner (again, assuming the ferret is kept in a cage) at least twice a day. Change the bedding completely at least once ever week or so.

Bathtime is important for a ferret for a number of reasons. The first and most obvious is to keep the little fella clean, healthy, and happy. Another reason bathtime is so important is because for the most part, ferrets have a blast in the water. Most ferrets I've seen will take to the water like fish, enjoying every minute of their bath, mine in particular has a great time when I put him in the tub for washing. Obviously, just like when giving a little kid a bath, it's important to be

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>