1. What Is A Ferret?
Domestic ferrets are small, furry mammals whose average size ranges from 1 to 5 pounds at maturity. The ferret is the domesticated member of the Order Carnivora, Family Mustelidae and Genus mustela.
2. Is the ferret a wild animal?
Unlike its cousins, the otter, weasel, badger and skunk, the domestic pet ferret is NOT a wild animal. Ferrets were domesticated by humans around 63 BC. The domestic ferret (Mustela [putorius] furo) should not be confused with the wild black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes), an endangered species native to the Midwestern United States. If the domestic ferret escapes outdoors, it rarely survives for more than a few days.
3. Where did the ferret originate?
Although the European polecat (Mustela putorius) is thought to be its primary ancestor, other species are thought to have contributed to the lineage of the modern pet ferret, including the Steppe polecat. Ferrrets are mentioned around 450 BC in a comedy by Aristophanes. Some historians also believe ferrets were being kept by Egyptians as pets before cats became popular. There is also a mention of ferrets in the older King James version of the Bible. However, the word for ferret has been difficult to translate - so some believe it means weasel or even lizard! So it is not conclusive that this mention is truly a ferret.
The first universally accepted reference to the ferret was in 63BC by a Greek historian named Strabo. Strabo states that the ferret was bred in captivity in Libya and used for hunting rabbits. By 600 AD the ferret had made it to Spain to hunt rabbits. As humans spread the rabbit as a meal source they brought the ferret along as the hunter.
4. Do ferrets make good pets?
Yes! Ferrets combine the best features of dogs and cats with some unique features of their own. Like cats, ferrets are small and quiet. Like dogs, they are affectionate, playful, and enjoy human interaction. They are independent, yet enjoy being with people. Their mischievous and playful nature, retained well into old age, makes them entertaining companions.
5. How intelligent is a ferret?
Ferrets will surprise and delight you with what they can do and learn. They recognize their name, respond to verbal and visual commands, and can even learn to do tricks. Ferrets can also be litter-box trained.
6. Do ferrets bite?
A healthy, well-trained ferret should not bite. Like all pets, ferrets need to be taught what acceptable behavior is. Ferrets have a lower bite rate than other household pets - you are less likely to be bit by a ferret than by the family dog.
7. What should a ferret eat?
A balanced diet and proper nutrition will lead your ferret to a long, active, and healthy life. Ferrets are strict carnivores; they require diets based on highly digestible animal (meat) protein with little to no carbohydrates. If you choose to feed dry food choose high quality ferret foods sold by pet shops, feed stores, and veterinarians with at least 36% protein, moderate in fats (approximately 20%), and low in carbohydrates. Ferrets may eat meats, such as chicken, turkey, and beef, in moderation. Natural and whole prey diets are also options. Whether these are your whole feeding regimen or part of it - it's a valid regimen. Ferrets imprint on their food during the first year of life so they should eat a mix of kibble and meats so they become accustomed to different flavors. This becomes especially important during illness, as fussy eaters are difficult to feed. Ferrets eat only when hungry so dry food and fresh water should always be available. When deciding or changing your ferret's diet do the proper research and consult with your veterinarian.
8. What foods should I not feed my ferret?
Ferrets should not eat dog food, poor quality cat food, sugary cereal, peanut butter, grains, carbohydrates, raisins, bananas, other fruits, vegetables, dairy products, chocolate, other sweets, or any food with sugar. All of these items are loaded with complex carbohydrates and a ferret's strictly carnivorous digestive tract cannot process these foods. Diets high in carbohydrates may lead to intestinal problems and some types of cancer.
9. What are the best treats to feed a ferret?
Ferrets are obligate carnivores; therefore, the best treats to feed a ferret are meat-based. Most store-bought treats are not healthy for ferrets. Acceptable food treats include a small amount of Gerbers or Beech Nut® chicken, beef, or turkey baby food (with no vegetables or starches; gravy is okay), cooked chicken breast (or other cooked meats), and freeze-dried 100% meat products.
10. Are ferrets nocturnal?
Ferrets are not nocturnal. They sleep an average of 18 hours per day, but will adjust their schedule to yours and be eager to play when you are.
11. Do ferrets have an odor?
Ferrets naturally have a light, musky odor. This odor is greatly minimized when the animal is spayed or neutered. Ferrets also have scent glands which release scent as a defense. These glands can be surgically removed, but it is not recommended and will not reduce a ferret's natural scent. Frequent bathing is discouraged as it removes oils that protect the ferret's fur. This causes an over-production of oil, which may increase the ferret's natural odor. Clean bedding and a healthy diet are the best ways to minimize a ferret's odor.
12. Are ferrets cage animals?
For their protection, ferrets should be kept in a ferret-proofed area of the home or in a large, well-ventilated cage when not under human supervision; however, ferrets should not be confined for an extended period of time. They need exercise, affection, and human companionship to remain happy and healthy. Ferrets need a MINIMUM of 4 hours per day out of their cage, at least 2 of which should include human interaction. The cage and play areas should include plenty of soft bedding, safe toys, and litter boxes filled with paper-based or wood-based pellet form litter. The ferret's living space should be temperature controlled, with the temperature kept in their comfort range of between 50 and 80 degrees F. Ferrets cannot tolerate temperatures above 85 degrees F.
13. Do ferrets get along with other pets?
A ferret's nature makes it a natural companion to most larger house pets. Introductions should be made with caution, however, and proper supervision is a must. Dogs with a strong prey drive should not be introduced to ferrets. It is not recommended that ferrets be introduced to birds, rodents (this includes hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs), or reptiles.
14. What health care does a ferret require?
An annual visit to a ferret-knowledgeable veterinarian helps to identify potential problems early. This yearly visit should include a careful physical exam, inspection of the ears for mites, and inspection of the teeth. Dental cleanings should be performed as necessary. Ferrets should be immunized for Rabies and Canine Distemper using only vaccines approved for use in ferrets. A test for Aleutian Disease Virus should be done at least once a year to ensure that your ferret is not carrying this highly contagious and potentially fatal disease.
15. What diseases can ferrets get?
Ferrets are susceptible to canine distemper and Aleutian mink disease. In addition, they can come down with flu-like symptoms or respiratory illnesses, similar to the "common cold", which can be transmitted by human companions. It is important to handle a ferret with extreme caution should you become ill.
Older ferrets can develop diseases. Most commonly seen are diseases of the adrenal glands and pancreas. Signs of an adrenal gland disorder include hair loss, muscle atrophy, urinary blockage in males, and enlarged vulva in females. Signs of pancreatic disease include lethargy, nausea, and seizures. Veterinary treatment of these diseases can keep a ferret happy and playful and extend their life expectancy.
Any digestive problem (changes in bowel routine, extreme weight gain or loss, vomiting) a ferret experiences is potentially serious. The best way to prevent these problems is to keep the ferret in an environment that is clean and free of dangerous objects. Foam packaging peanuts, rubber chew toys, erasers, rubber bands, latex, or plastic items should be kept away from the ferret.
16. Can ferrets get fleas?
Ferrets exposed to the outdoors or other outdoor pets can acquire fleas and are at risk for heartworm. Consult an experienced veterinarian prior to use of any flea product, and ask for a recommendation on a heartworm preventative if needed.
17. What about ferrets and children?
Children and ferrets can be wonderful playmates. A child should be taught how to hold and care for a ferret. Small children should never be left unsupervised with any animal, no matter how trusted the pet.
18. How long do ferrets live?
A healthy ferret can live anywhere from 6 to 10 years.
19. What grooming is required?
Proper grooming and maintenance are vital for a happy, healthy ferret. Ferrets are naturally clean animals and will groom themselves often. They will shed their fur twice a year and should be combed during these times to remove loose fur. Baths can be given if necessary, but are not recommended more than a few times a year. An experienced ferret veterinarian can demonstrate proper grooming techniques. Using these techniques, a ferret's nails should be trimmed every week. Ears should be checked for buildup or mites at the same time and cleaned every week as well. Teeth should be brushed at least once a month with ferret toothpaste and a soft small pet toothbrush. They should be checked for tartar buildup at this time and cleaned by a veterinarian as needed.
20. Should a ferret be altered?
It is strongly recommended that pet ferrets be altered by 9 months of age.
Females (known as jills) may go into heat as early as 5 months of age. If the jill is not bred or given a hormone shot, the resulting condition is often fatal.
Males (known as hobs) that are not neutered produce a strong odor that many people find unpleasant. Ideally, a hob should reach full growth (7 or 8 months of age) before being neutered.
21. What about rabies?
On February 7, 1990, the U.S.D.A. licensed the first rabies vaccine for use in ferrets. This vaccine is known as IMRAB-3 and is a killed virus vaccine also approved for use in dogs and cats.
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