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Tips on looking after your ferret's teeth

Start cleaning your ferret's teeth whilst the ferret is very young. It is most important to get into a routine before the ferret reaches approximately six months of age. It is best to use dog or cat toothpaste and a child's small soft toothbrush.

Begin by rubbing your ferret's lips with your fingers and then give him lots of praise and a little treat, just to get him used to being touched in this area. As he gets used to this, add a dot of the toothpaste to your finger and manipulate the gums and teeth. Most of the tartar forms on the outer side of the teeth so there is no need to spend too much time scrubbing the inner surfaces. Make sure you reach your ferret's back teeth and brush slowly and softly. Try to brush your ferret's teeth first thing in the morning.

Your ferret, even with the best of care-giving at home, may need to have his teeth cleaned professionally occasionally. Your local veterinarian can do this. Your ferret may need a low dose of anesthetic for this procedure, but the vet will without doubt polish your ferret's teeth at the same time.

Helping to prevent tooth decay

1. Feed your ferret dried food rather than canned, soft food. If you do this from an early age you have more chance of success, as ferrets do prefer a soft food diet. They will however get used to dried food and will enjoy!

2. Try your ferret with dental chews many of these contain fluoride and may help to help towards your ferret having healthy teeth and gums.

3. You can buy a freeze-dried fish treat, which is also good for your ferret's teeth and gums. Visit your local pet store.

4. If your ferret resists the child's toothbrush you can buy a special pet's finger brush, this just slides on to your fingertip. Ask at your pet store for advice.

Ferrets make wonderful pets and will become your best friend. So it is without doubt the owner's responsibility to ensure dental care is given. On average ferrets live between 6 and 10 years, although many do live longer. So it is very important to look after their teeth and gums.

It can be easy to forget the dull duty of cleaning your ferret's teeth but it is important, just like it is for the children, the dogs, the cats, and us. After all you wouldn't want to go out in the morning without cleaning your teeth, would you? Your ferret certainly appreciates it in the morning when you give him his morning cuddle.

Learn more about this author, Harriet Lee.
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