Ferret care – ferrets as pets
Ferrets are becoming quite a trendy pet in some areas of the United States, and with that trend comes the need for proper training in ferret care. Probably the most important question you can ask as you prepare to get a ferret as a pet is whether or not you are ready to be a ferret owner. Unfortunately, there are too many people who don’t take this into account and ferrets abandonment has become a legitimate concern.
Here are some things you should know and consider before you say yes to becoming a ferret owner:
- Ferrets are kind and sweet. They also have the potential to be high maintenance animals. Some sources recommend that owners be willing to spend two hours a day playing with their ferrets. If you live with an extremely busy schedule, you should keep this in mind. Many people cannot find two hours to devote to their own children.
- Caring for ferrets will involve some set-up costs as you will need ferret pet supplies such as a suitable cage, bedding, toys and a safe place to raise your new pet.
- Veterinary care is mandatory for ferrets. Along with the basic visits you may be familiar with as a dog or cat owner, ferrets can sometimes have their own special problems that can be expensive to resolve when they arise. Also, not all veterinary clinics will accept a ferret as a patient. Before adopting a ferret, make sure you have a veterinarian in your area who will care for him or her. If you don’t, ask yourself if you’re willing to drive the miles it takes to get to the nearest small animal vet.
- Ferrets can be a bit smelly. Although most are sold “fixed” and deodorized now, you should keep this in mind if you are extremely sensitive to odors.
- Your house will need to be ferret-proofed to keep your ferret safe. You need to make sure that your pet ferret cannot fit into something attractive such as a heating duct or small holes in the wall. Also, common hazards such as electrical cords and poisonous substances should be placed safely before your curious new friend discovers them.
- If you have other pets, be sure that they will be able to live with a new pet ferret in the house. Some dogs and cats do not take well to these new visitors.
- Check local laws and regulations related to keeping ferrets as pets. Some areas strictly prohibit their possession. Other areas require permits. Finally, in some areas you can do whatever you want when it comes to owning a ferret. Check this out before you buy.
None of this is meant to scare anyone away from owning a ferret. This is just information to consider for your own good and the good of the ferrets. Ferrets can be great pets, but you need to know that you are getting a different animal than the dog or cat you may have had before. All of this should be considered a very basic introduction to ferret ownership and ferret care.
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