
Ferrets are not rats (rodents), they are in fact in the Mustelidae family. Related to Badgers, Skunks, Weasels, & polecats. They are carniverous. In the wild, they would eat meat such as mice.
What's the Temperment of a Ferret? Ferrets are very curious little creatures. They like to go in small areas, open cabinets, hide things, & get themselves in sticky situations often. That is why it's important to Ferret Proof the room your ferret plays in. Thought they have the curiousity of a cat, they are playful & energetic. & very loving pets to have.
What is 'Ferret Proofing'? Ferret proofing a room is basically like making a room child proof. Keeping cords from being able to be chewed, making sure all cracks and crevices are blocked off or sealed. Also, being sure the area is clear of small objects. Such as coins, ribbons, needles, nails, jewelry, etc. Ferrets have a tendency to take things and hide them. So, if your favourite necklace shows up missing, your best best is to check the ferret first. Ferrets also have a problem of eating things that should not be eaten. If a ferret is to get ahold of a coin, or something as deadly as a sewing needles, it could severly injure them or even cause to be fatal.
How Often Do I Interact with my pet Ferret? As much as you would with a cat or dog. Ferrets kept in a cage most of their lives become feral & unable to maintain when holding or playing with. They need daily interaction with humans, toys, & exploring to keep a healthy & happy ferret.
Do Ferrets Bite? Ferrets have a tendency to go through a "nipping" stage. It's when they're young as kits. When your ferret bites, you know to scruff him. This relaxes the ferret to release the skin & lets him know not to do it. It should only take a few
times before he catches on. Ferrets raised with other ferrest have a tendency to bite more, as well. Ferrets have tough skin & when they play with one another, bite. So, when interacting with humans, they often get the play-mates confused & bite their human companion too hard. You can correct the behaviour by scruffing. Also, ferrets that are not interacted with often, tend to bite,too. If you haven't played with your ferret or even taken him from the cage in weeks, more than likely you will be bitten. Not being used to being handled stresses them out as they grow older, causing them to panic & even take a snap at the owner.
What's 'Scruffing'? Scruffing is a term used with ferrets. It's when you take your thumb & the meaty part of your fore-finger & pull the ferret up by the back of the
neck. This causes them to relax and even yawn. It takes a few times to get the hang of doing it correctly & comfortably for you & your ferret. Scruffing makes it easy for you to clip your ferrets nails, feed him medication, or teach him not to nip.
What's the Typical Life-span of a Ferret? Ferrets can live to be 10yrs old. Most start to get health problems & age from 6yrs old till death. Even though your ferret grows older, they still continue their playful ways.
What Health Issues might I encounter with a Ferret? Ferrets have weak immune systems. They're not an animal that can take a long fall, or take getting a cold. So Vet check-ups are essential for top ferret health. Common health problems may
include:
What is the Benefit of Owning a Ferret? Ferrets are a curious & very happy creature. They bound around your house making a chirping noise to signify their
excitement. They are a joy and pleasure to have. Having one ferret allows him to bond soley to you, while having multiples has them bond to one another more, but causes the fun to be more entertaining to watch. Ferrets are like having kittens, only, they never grow up.