Choosing a Home for Your Ferret
Prior to bringing your ferret home there are a few things to consider. Foremost is choosing a home for your ferret. It will be the place where your ferret will spend most of his time so do your best to make it a safe and comfortable place.
There are many choices in ferret cages so choose wisely. Does it have enough room for your ferret to run around in? Have you checked to make sure the cage bars are close enough together that he can’t stick his head through the bars? Are you sure there are no gaps in the flooring that your ferret’s feet might get caught in and injured? Is the cage bottom plastic and easy to clean? Does the cage have multiple layers and large doors (to make it easy for your ferret to get in and out)? Is there plastic coated metal in the cage? (Avoid this as the ferret may chew the plastic coating off with the result being a major medical issue – intestinal blockage)
Your ferret will spend a lot of time sleeping (15-20 hours per day) so soft bedding is an important consideration. Also the investment in a sleeping sack or hammock will increase your ferret’s comfort and enjoyment of his home.
Two hours every day your ferret needs to be outside of his cage. Take thought as to how to ferret-proof a room for him to explore.
Toys will enhance your ferret experience. Like small children, care must be taken in the selection of toys. They need to be durable and not easily destroyed. Cat toys work well for ferrets. Never leave toys in the ferret’s cage unsupervised. There is always the risk that your ferret will damage a toy and eat a piece that will be harmful to him.
Ferrets, as part of the Mustelid family, share many characteristics of weasels and otters. They have an identifying odor that can be removed my have your veterinarian de-scent them. Often you can schedule the de-scenting along with the spaying and neutering. If this procedure is performed it is important to carefully follow the vet’s post-surgical instructions to ensure full recovery. Also, your ferret needs regular checkups and vaccinations. It is common for your ferret to have already received his first series of shots, so make certain you know what and when so you can continue the series of distemper shots. After the initial shots, your ferret will only need an annual follow-up shot.
Provide well for your ferret’s food and water needs in his cage. High quality cat food or specially designed ferret food work well. Ask about the brand of food your ferret was eating prior to bringing him home and stick with it. In order to switch brands you will need to mix the new with the old and gradually increase the portion of the new brand until you totally replace the old. Snacks and treats for ferrets need to be carefully planned using foods such as cooked eggs and meat – sugary treats can be harmful.
Bringing your new furry friend home takes a lot of planning and preparation, but will be worth it as it will ensure both a safe and healthy environment for your ferret.
