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 dietary requirements. Ferrets love to play, so you could get a myriad of store bought toys, but truth be told; a simple cardboard tube and a few boxes with lots of holes are perfect to keep any ferret happy and busy. It is important to consider ferret-proofing your home prior to bringing one home. Ensure cupboards are latched, and all escape routes are closed off. Once a ferret escapes, you should strictly monitor any exiting of your domicile, because once a ferret gets outside it is next to impossible to recover them. You should also keep poisonous or hazardous material safe from small paws, since like the old saying "curiosity can kill the cat or at least the ferret in this case.
3.)
Are ferrets messy? With every pet you must be willing to accept a bit of cleaning up. Actually, some ferrets have been known to take to litter training, but otherwise they will still occasionally relieve themselves in undesirable places. If you are going down the litter-training route, try placing several locations, since ferrets are common among creatures who mark their territory.
4.)
Are ferrets noisy? Most ferrets are quiet, save a few clucks or chirps they might let out during play. If you don't mind the sound of tiny feet scurrying about, or the occasional scratching or nibbling, ferrets are fairly quiet pets.
5.)
What about other pets? Most ferrets actually prefer other animal interaction, and are usually best with a partner or a few brothers and sisters to play with, Dogs and cats have been known to work well with ferrets, but it is recommended to introduce the animals at a very young age to increase temperament and the ability for them to get along. I had a Welsh Corgi, who just loved to play with our ferret "Henry", but it took some time for the bond to be created.
6.)
What about my furniture and belongings? Ferrets are mischievous and very curious by nature, but unlike dogs or cats, they don't chew everything, or find your couch or chair a perfect place to sharpen their claws. Other than a few mishaps and dropping, ferrets are actually very kind to your belongings.
7.)
How do I clean a ferret? Contrary to belief ferrets can be stinky creatures. So, that being said it is recommended to occasionally give them a bath. Keep in mind that they are susceptible to dry skin, and this could lead to self-mutilation, so don't use commercial or fragrant soaps.
8.)
How long can a ferret last? Since children can become very attached, it is important to understand the life span of a ferret. Most ferrets live between seven to ten years, at least under normal circumstances. Ferrets can also be struck down early by any number of the common diseases, such as Adrenal disease, Insulinoma, Lymphoma, and several other viral diseases. This is also one of the reasons I recommend frequent hand cleaning, with addition to the use of hand sanitizer.
Honestly, ferrets are great pets, capable of providing endless hours of entertainment and cuddling. Again, I must digress to ensuring children are age appropriate, and you should never leave them unattended without some adult supervision. Babies and ferrets mix like oil and water, since babies might squeeze a little too hard, or try using them for teething, which will not go over well at all!
Ferrets can be docile, but that doesn't mean those sharp pointed teeth
don't ever bite! Although most ferrets can be trained not to bite, save a few loving little nips, their still is potential that a bite could break through the skin.
Ferrets are also very demanding, constantly seeking your devotion and attention. Sure, they are easily amused, and sometimes are quite happy playing around in their cage, but like a cat or dog, they really like to get out and explore. Keep in mind they are also great competitors in the game of hide-and-seek, mainly due to that they can squeeze their way into just about any narrow crack or crevice that they may come upon. They are also extremely intelligent; so don't be surprised if they figure out how to get out of their cage, or into whatever else sparks their curiosity. Some ferrets will even employ objects to help them in their quest, using small objects like step stools, or ladders to get them to where they want to be. They are also likely to occasionally latch onto something that does not belong to them, like a watch, jewelry or any other small items they come across during their out of cage travels.
Yes, ferrets are lovable and addicting pets to own, and you shouldn't be the least bit surprised if you find yourself wanting another one! Sometimes their crazy antics can be more amusing than watching the latest sitcom, but like anything else you have to take it with a grain of salt. Any pet is a responsibility, and with that in mind, ferrets do make great pets, but they are still dependent on the love and care from their owner!