by Sarah Arnette

Created on: November 11, 2009   Last Updated: November 12, 2009

Ferrets are interesting little critters. They are fun, fanatical, intelligent, cute and endearing. With all these great little words about ferrets people would think that everyone would love a ferret. However, there are some things that people need to remember about ferrets.

Ferrets have no fear

While being fearless is a good trait to an extent, it can be a very bad trait as well. Ferrets often do not realize how little they are. They will run right up to a much larger animals and strange people. Normally this does not lead to harm, however, some animals think of these little creatures as tasty snacks. Some people who see ferrets, especially ones that are loose, may see that ferret as a cute pet and take it.

Approaching people and animals is not one of the worst times the lack of fear comes along. While most animals will avoid flame, ferrets are known for putting their noses in a candle. The can be burnt quite badly by even a little flame. They are also known for squeezing their little, flexible bodies into holes and getting trapped. This can lead to either a dead ferret or expensive house renovations to get the trapped ferret out of whatever hole it managed to find.

Ferrets use a tall litter box

Many new ferret owners purchase a cat litter box, thinking that it will work the same. However, when a cat defecates, it squats its butt down. When a ferret defecates, it backs its butt up and not down. This means that the poop goes strait out instead of down and out. This means that it misses the lower walls of the cat litter pan and hits either the wall or carpet that the litter pan is near. A ferret needs a specialized litter pan designed for ferrets.

Ferrets need baths

Ferrets do have an odor to them. Ferrets need to be bathed at least once a month. If the ferret is left to its own devices, it may look clean but definitely smells like a little stinker. There are many scented shampoos and conditioners that deodorize the ferret while leaving behind a pleasant smell. It is also important to keep the ferret cage clean and the litter boxes clean to help prevent a stinky ferret.

Ferrets need play time

Ferrets need a lot of interactive play. They need more than just toys, they need human interaction. While it is true that a business of ferrets will play together, they need the interaction between themselves and their humans to be truly happy. In addition, harnessing and walking the ferret can be very rewarding and is very important to the development of the ferret.

Ferrets need to sleep

Ferrets are known for sleeping many hours in a row. It is very true that a ferret can sleep upwards of twenty hours a day. This makes them a great pet for those who have busy lives, but a boring pet for those who are home for more hours or for children who are looking for a pet to play with all day. Ferrets that do not get enough sleep can be very grouchy and mean spirited. They can also experience additional stress and illness.

Ferrets get sick

Ferrets are prone to a large number of genetic disorders. There are several adrenal disorders and pancreatic disorders that plague the ferrets. Since there are so many health concerns for ferrets, many of the pet insurance companies do not cover ferrets or do not cover certain disorders for ferrets. If one is looking for a healthy pet and few veterinarian bills, one should not consider a ferret.

Learn more about this author, Sarah Arnette.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.