Ferrets
- Nutrition
- Housing
- Health
- FAQs
Ferrets are very appealing with their frolicking behaviour and inquisitive nature exploring the environment. They are sociable, clean animals who enjoy human companionship. There are many coloured varieties including the fitch, sable, albino & cinnamon.
Nutrition
Ferrets are carnivores whose diet is high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fibre.
There are some good quality commercial ferret foods or alternatively high quality commercial dry kitten food. Offering them human-grade raw meaty bones on a weekly basis will also aid in keeping their teeth clean.
Clean fresh water should be available at all times in the form of water bottles or heavy bowls.
Talk to your vet for dietary advice
Housing
Ferrets should be kept confined when they’re not under direct supervision and prefer to sleep in a small cosy area. They require play time everyday and enjoy exploring so rearranging their cage furnishings regularly (provide boxes, plastic tunnels etc) makes this space more fun. Ferrets like to chew, so provide objects around the home and in their cage, but be careful of small items what could be inadvertently swallowed.
Ferrets are vulnerable to heat stress, ensure the area they’re kept in won’t become too hot.
Health
All ferrets need regular health checks and to keep their vaccinations up to date. Minimum health care should include regular worming, heart worm prevention and flea control. Any changes in eating, drinking, urination, defecation or weight loss or gain should be checked out with a visit to the vet. Coat and feet should be checked too.
Fequntly Asked Questions
1. What can I give as a healthy treat?
Soft and easily digestible fruit and vegetables such as melons, pear can be offered, but only in minute quantities.
2. Should I get my ferret desexed?
Yes. Desexing is recommended for males & is a must for females from around 6 months of age/before their first heat
3. Can I teach my ferret not to bite?
Yes, with more success the younger you start. Ferrets will often play-bite or nip when playing but need to be taught that biting people is inappropriate Ferrets can be gently ‘scruffed’ by being held from the back of the neck. This may help to calm them down and can be used with a verbal ‘no’ if they have bitten you.
4. Can I toilet train my ferret?
Yes. Ferrets often prefer to toilet in corners so putting litter boxes in the corners of their cage and each room that they play in with shredded paper or recycled paper cat litter will help.
For more information please consult the RSPCA Knowledge Base.
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