The ferret is a rather unique breed of animal, but whether or not they make for a good pet is both a personal and a conditional decision. The first thing you must do before considering a ferret for your next pet, is to do some research. Ferrets are small slender creatures that are often compared to rats, but unlike other rodents ferrets are feisty and intelligent and they also tend to be more social, often bonding closely with their owner or other animals in the household.
-WHAT IS A FERRET-
Before considering one for a pet it is best learn exactly what is a ferret. Ferrets are small carnivorous mammals that stem from the same gene pool as the polecat or weasel family. These animals reach an average length of twenty centimeters from tail to nose, and usually weigh no more than four pounds, although the male species is most likely to reach the maximum size and weight, compared to the smaller females.
Ferrets are most known for their elongated heads, rounded ears, and pokey little noses. There paws are one of the most noticeable features, since they almost appear web-like like a duck, but instead purport sharp claws. Interestingly ferrets get their name from the Latin word
furittus", which means little thief, which is quite appropriate since ferrets are forgers by nature. A ferret's diet usually consists of small prey, but domesticated ferrets can obtain necessary nutrients from specific commercial ferret kibble and treats. Ferrets are also well known to desire small fruits and sugary treats, like raisins or bits of cereal or cookie crumbs. Since ferrets are carnivores, they do require anywhere between thirty to forty-percent protein to fiber ratio, so it is recommended to stick to ferret designed products.
Ferrets are extremely playful and are highly intelligent, which brings us to a checklist to consider before deciding on whether a ferret is going to be the best choice of pet for you or your family.
1.)
Do ferrets make good pets for younger children? Ferrets are normally not violent creatures, but given the right circumstances; they have been known to hurt a child in either an act of defense or a playtime mishap. Ferrets are carnivores, so they possess small razor-sharp teeth for chewing. Owning a ferret requires some degree of responsibility, so I highly recommend waiting until your child is at least nine years of age or more.
2.)
Are ferrets hard to take care of? Actually ferrets are easy to maintain, and they require little to no expense, save a cage and proper
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