by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: February 19, 2009   Last Updated: March 06, 2009

Ferrets make wonderful pets for people who are prepared to do all that is necessary to care for them and provide them with love and attention. These people will have the time and true desire for the animal, not just a fleeting "fad" type of pet. This is no different than any other animal, except that the level of care and attention a ferret needs to really thrive is somewhat more extensive than certain other domesticated animals. This is primarily because ferrets are extremely social, as well as active, in their waking hours. They want your time and if you aren't ready to give it, watch out! You may end up with a ferret who entertains themselves far too often, sometimes at the expense of your belongings.

My own experience with this breed was limited to a couple of days of misery for both myself, my fifteen year old daughter and her new pet, the cute little ferret. Although she really thought she wanted to be a ferret owner, she didn't have what it takes to raise one. She had done her homework, researching the animal on various websites designed by other ferret owners who absolutely loved them, and decided this was the pet for her. At Petco, we selected a beautiful little boy who snuggled gently into the arms of the sales associate. She wasn't allowed to hold him herself, due to the fact that she was under sixteen. We got all the right supplies and headed home to start a wonderful friendship.

Arriving home, we set up and then my daughter couldn't wait any longer to meet her new pal. Upon opening the box to get out the little guy, she was stunned when it leapt up into her face and firmly latched on with sharp teeth, drawing a bit of blood. The ferret was terrified in this new environment and reacted by instinct. My daughter reacted by instinct also, never being brave enough to try holding him again. Back to Petco he went, to hopefully be purchased by one of the "right people" who would calmly get acquainted with him and build a trusting relationship together.

So, that is the first thing that people wanting a ferret should realize. Young ones are not yet used to contact with strangers in strange places and will become fearful, reacting with a nip or even a full-fledged bite. A person with a calm demeanor and a gentle touch will do much better than one prone to nervousness and trepidation.

Ferrets are a very active breed of animal, loving nothing more than to run about and play with toys, people and other ferrets. Although they sleep approximately eighteen hours per

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