Environment
A suitable living environment
Diet
A suitable diet
Behaviour
To be able to behave normally
Companionship
To have appropriate companionship
Health
To be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease
1
Environment
A suitable living environment
2
Diet
A suitable diet
3
Behaviour
To be able to behave normally
4
Companionship
To have appropriate companionship
5
Health
To be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease
Whether you decide to house your ferrets inside or outdoors, they will need a large enclosure that provides them with safe places to hide, rest and sleep as well as lots of space to run, climb, play and explore. Ferrets are very inquisitive and benefit from lots of enrichment such as tunnels, hammocks, hides, toys and climbing frames.
If housing ferrets outdoors ensure the enclosure is located somewhere that protects them from draughts as well as the rain, wind and extremes of temperature. Always make sure they have areas of shade to retreat to. For those kept inside, the sleeping areas can be located in a safe ‘playroom’ within the house. Ferrets like exploring and mouthing/chewing objects so make sure their environment is free from hazards such as poisonous plants and electric cables which can harm them.
Ferrets are carnivores. They should be fed on a good quality ferret biscuit along with some healthy treats such as cooked chicken or the occasional egg. Feed balls can be used to encourage natural hunting behaviour.
Whilst ferrets are known for being very active and playful, they are also very keen to get lots of power naps. In fact, they often sleep for up to 18-20 hours of their day waking for a trip to the litter tray or a bit of food or to play. When they are awake, they love to play. Cat toys such as fishing rods are ideal for when you want to spend some time with them. Always supervise your ferrets when they are playing with toys and replace these when they are damaged. If you spend lots of time socialising and handling your ferrets, many will enjoy interacting and playing with you.
Ferrets depend on the companionship of their own kind for their safety, comfort and happiness. Whilst they are predators, they still feel more relaxed when they have another ferret close by. They can be housed in same sex pairs or mixed groups. Neutering is highly recommended to prevent unwanted litters and reduce any tension in a social group. Many rescue centres offer a mixing service for single ferrets.
Ferrets require one vaccination a year against distemper. They should also be checked regularly for signs of fleas or ticks and treated promptly, especially if living outside or being walked regularly. Ferrets can also be very prone to dehydration in the summer months; providing them with a shallow paddling pool can help reduce this. Not all ferrets will enjoy playing in water. Always supervise your ferrets when around water, never force them into a pool and make sure they can always get out when they want to. Ferrets can be prone to a disease known as adrenal gland disease; this can be managed through specialist vet support.
You should register your ferrets with a vet who will be able to provide you with more advice on things like neutering, vaccination and general health care. Some vets may have more experience with ferrets than others.
Check before you buy
Please consider contacting your local animal rescue/rehoming centre
Many rescue centres who take in multi species rescue and rehome ferrets. All reputable rescue centres will have neutered, vaccinated, health checked and socialised each ferret prior to rehoming. The average fee is often the same as purchasing a ferret from another source, except ferrets from elsewhere will mostly not have had the above done and may come with considerable financial and emotional implications. Check out the charity links below for your nearest ferret rescue.
Ensure you are 100% confident that the ferret(s) is the correct gender that you have been advised it to be
If you are unsure speak your vet for further advice. Unexpected litters & accidental pregnancies are common with small pets as people don’t always check the sex of their new pets.
Spend plenty of time with the ferret to ensure their character will suit your family
Ask lots of questions – reputable establishments will be happy to answer these for you.
Don't be tempted to purchase ‘starter pack’ accommodation (indoors or out)
In most cases these will be too small to meet a ferrets needs and often poorly built with a short shelf life. Purchase or build large quality enclosures, that with the correct care, should last around 10 years.
Always health check any ferret you intend to purchase prior to taking them home
Healthy ferrets should be:
- Alert & inquisitive
- Walking about without signs of discomfort
- Healthy looking coat without hair loss
- Eyes bright
- Clean nose
- Clean ears free from wax build up
- Teeth clean and white
- Eating well without signs of discomfort
Common Scams
Some ferrets are used for hunting rabbits - these ferrets may have had little handling so care should be taken when taking on as a family pet
With time and patience, they can become friendly and easy to handle, but they may require more of an experienced owner.
