by Liza Cameron Wasser

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: March 06, 2009

It is of supreme importance to choose the right cage for your ferret. The wrong cage can hurt him or allow him to escape and hurt himself in the house. Ferrets are curious and very adept at squeezing through small spaces. The rule of thumb is that if the ferret can get his head through a space, his body can follow. It is best to invest in a cage that is specially designed for ferrets. These are well-constructed cages that keep your ferret safe and happy.

What To Look For in a Cage

There are several cages available online specifically designed for ferrets. These range in price from just under $100 to over $500. A good ferret cage must be large enough to contain a litter pan, food and water bowls, bedding and enough room for your ferret to play. A cage for a single ferret should have at least 3 feet by 2 feet of floor space and be 2 feet high.

Cages designed for ferrets are usually made of coated metal bars with a PVC floor or pull-out tray. The bars are set apart at a distance not wider than 1-inch, to ensure that the ferret cannot squeeze through or get his head stuck. The door to the cage should have a good quality locking mechanism or the ferret may escape.

Some cages have floors, ramps or ladders made of metal mesh. The metal mesh is uncomfortable to walk on and may allow your ferret's feet to become wedged between the mesh. If this is the case, you should cover the mesh with cloth pads or linoleum tiles. Cloth pads have the advantage of being able to be thrown into the washing machine for easy cleaning and linoleum tiles can be wiped clean.

What to Put in the Cage

Ferrets need a constant supply of food and water, bedding, a litter pan and plenty of room to play.

Food bowls should be heavy and not easily able to be knocked over. Ferrets love to play in their food and water bowls. Your ferret's bedding should be soft and comfortable. A small cat bed is a good choice or you could provide a couple of old t-shirts or some towels for him to burrow into and roll around on. The best litter pan filler is paper pellets. Some cat litter pan fillers can cause respiratory problems in your ferret, so be aware and avoid clumping clay kitty litter.

Your ferret will want to climb and snuggle and play. Provide several varieties of ferret toys as well as a hammock and tunnel for active play. There should be ramps and platforms for your ferret to climb around on.

Maintenance of the Cage

Keeping your ferret's cage clean is very important for his health and to minimize the natural scent your ferret gives off. You should clean his food and water bowl daily in addition to a twice daily changing of his water. The litter pan should also be cleaned out daily. Check any fabric coverings and his bedding for obvious soiling and remove them for washing. It is best to have two or three changes of bedding and fabric pad covers so that you have replacements while you are washing the soiled ones. A total cleaning of the cage is a weekly chore. Take everything out of the cage and wash it. Wash the cage itself with a mild detergent or with products specifically made for ferret cages. Make sure the entire cage is dry before returning your ferret to the cage.

Placement of the Cage

Your ferret is a social creature and likes being near the action. Choose a spot in your home that is more public than private. Avoid putting the cage near an outside door to minimize drafts. Ferrets are also prone to sunstroke, so keep the cage out of direct sunlight.

Providing your ferret with a safe and fun environment will keep you and your ferret happy.

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