Small Domestics

Ferrets

Fun, Fast & Fascinating

Ferrets have been domesticated for more than 2,000 years, and were originally used to hunt rabbits. Although descended from wild European polecats, they are not able to cope in the wild and should be classed as domestic, rather than wild animals.

Male ferrets are called "hobs", females are "jills" and the babies are known as" kits".

Behaviour

Most ferrets are quite tame and do not bite unless provoked, although some may become a bit excited and nip when playing, much as kittens do. A little training usually deters them from this habit. Male ferrets may be a bit more aggressive than females. It is unusual to find a bad-tempered or vicious ferret, but occasionally one may turn up. Ferrets are very social animals and love to play with toys, people and other pets. They should not be left unattended with babies, though accidents can happen and a child can be bitten (usually due to lack of parental supervision). Ferrets should not be placed in compromising situations, where they have to defend themselves by irresponsible owners.

Ferrets are very inquisitive, playful little creatures who enjoy roaming around and investigating their environment. When their owners are away, they can be kept in a cage, which should measure 3'x2'x18". They should be let out to play when their owners come home. Ferrets also love ferret condo-style cages, which have two levels for climbing. Playing is an important part of their lives.

Ferrets like to sleep under a towel or blanket, and should be given a little area or box all their own for sleeping. Ferrets sleep an average of 14 hours each day since they are so active during waking hours.

Ferrets can be trained to use a litter box. Often they will select a corner of a room. Back into it and use it as a toilet. Place the litter box there.

Ferrets love to chew things and will often swallow foreign objects that can block their intestinal tracts. Keep them away from rubber and spongy items. Hair or string may also block their stomachs. Ferrets do not vomit, as cats do. They should be given hairball laxative for cats regularly, twice a week.

They are amazing escape artists. Ferret-proofing your home is essential to prevent losing your pet in heating vents, walls or even through mail slots.

Life Span

Ferrets have a life span of five to 11 years although the average is usually five to seven years.

Veterinary Care

Ferrets should be examined at least twice a year by a veterinarian knowledgeable in their care.

Their geriatric problems begin at three to fours years of age and they need regular testing starting at that time. As they age, ferrets become susceptible to more disease problems, such as tumors and hormonal imbalances. Some of these hormonal problems are caused by tumors.

Ferrets are susceptible to canine (dog) distemper and rabies and require vaccination against these two diseases; they are not susceptible to cat or any other dog diseases. Distemper vaccine is started when they are around eight weeks of age; two injections are required, two to four weeks apart. Rabies vaccine (killed vaccine only) is given at around three to four months of age. Annual boosters are required for both of these diseases.

Like dogs, ferrets are also natural hosts for canine heartworm (Diofilaria imitis). In areas where this parasite is a problem, it is recommended that they be placed on a heartworm preventative program. In mid-May each year, a blood test should be done, followed by monthly medication until the end of November.

Ferrets are susceptible to the human influenza virus. If a family member has the flu, do not allow him or her to handle the ferret.

Neutering is recommended: it will reduce the strong odor in ferret urine and often makes male ferrets less aggressive. Females will go into a prolonged heat, or estrus, cycle that lasts up to six months. This prolonged heat cycle produces a high estrogen level that may cause a hormonally induced anemia that can be fatal, therefore, spaying is necessary.

Ferrets develop a lot of rusty brown wax in their ears and often get ear mites. You should check their ears regularly and clean them as needed.

Scent

Ferrets mature sexually when they reach nine to 12 months of age. As they mature, male ferrets, like tom cats, develop a strong musky odour to their urine. Both male and female ferrets have scent glands, one on each side of the anus, that secrete a strong smelling fluid. These scent glands can be surgically removed. Some odour will remain, but it is not objectionable. The residual odour comes from their skin glands. Ferrets can be washed as needed, using a mild commercial ferret shampoo. It is not advisable to bathe them more that once a month, however; to do so more frequently risks removing natural skin oils they need.

Diet

It is best to feed commercial foods made specifically for ferrets. This can be supplemented by high quality cat food (dry or canned). If fed strictly a cat food diet some will gradually develop a fur or skin problem.

When properly cared for, ferrets can be entertaining, loving and fun pets and they will provide much enjoyment for their owners.

Remember, treat this little creature with the respect and care that he deserves.