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The lifespan of a ferret is quite short, only 5 to 8 years with very few ever living past ten years. What feels like the pet you just brought into your life has turned into an older ferret and may now have some special needs. While 8 may not seem like old age to humans, this is considered "senior citizen" age for a ferret.

Your once active and mischievous pet may start to slow down and could even experience some health problems that are part of the aging process. Knowing the special needs of older ferrets will not only help them live comfortably in their final years but it can extend their lifespan.

At approximately 4 years of age, a ferret may not require as much protein as it had in the past. Ferret food labels will list the amount of protein on the package but many are identifiable by the words "adult" ferret food. This lower-protein content is much easier on the ferret's digestive system and more importantly, the kidneys. Because diarrhea is a concern for older ferrets, any change in a ferret's diet should be done slowly. Staying with the same brand of food while mixing small amounts of the new food with the old food will help the ferret's digestive system adjust to the change.

The amount of food will normally stay the same unless the ferret's activity levels decrease. It is important that a ferret be seen by a veterinarian any time food intake or activity levels decrease. While these are signs of aging, they can also be symptoms of other underlying medical issues. At times a geriatric ferret may play as if it were a young kit but play times will come become shorter with nap times extending for longer periods of time.

An older ferret shouldn't be forced to play and may even become moody when awakened during nap time. Because these sleeping times are becoming longer, an older ferret should be provided with a comfortable and quiet place to relax and snooze. The area should be free of distractions such as other pets and even children who may keep the ferret from getting the rest that it needs.

The physical appearance of an older ferret will also begin to change. The coat will not be as smooth as it once was and may even appear delicate. Limiting the amount of baths to no more than once a month is important as stripping the oils from the coat will only create skin conditions. Special sprays that are available can be used to add moisture to the skin.

The bowel and bladder habits of an older ferret can sometimes become troublesome. Extra litter boxes may need placed throughout the area that the ferret roams. And because muscle weakness can become an issue, the litter box may need placed in a more accessible place. Cages and sleeping areas may need lowered or ramps created to help the ferret come and go with less effort required.

Grooming is extremely important for older ferrets as they tend to get hairballs more frequently. A veterinarian may also prescribe a laxative made especially for cat hairballs to help prevent hairballs from developing in the ferret's stomach. Regular brushing of the coat will decrease the amount of loose hairs that can end up inside the ferret's body.

Because older ferrets are prone to more diseases and disorders, owners should seek veterinarian care anytime they suspect a problem. However, owners should have regular vet check-ups for their ferrets especially after the age of 3. Hair loss, diarrhea, skin changes, scratching, and growths are all special concerns that should be seen by an experienced ferret vet. After a ferret has provided years of wonderful companionship to their owners, it is only fitting that the owner provides the best care possible during the ferret's final years.

Learn more about this author, Angela Pollock.
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