5 Facts you need to know before getting a ferret in 2022

Top 5 Facts you need to know before getting a ferret

Ferrets are cuddly, brave pets that can be great for people who have time to take them out of their cages and play with them every day.

Ferrets are playful, mischievous, entertaining little animals that can bring endless fun to a family. Ferrets are cuddly, interactive, brave pets that can be great for owners who have time to take them out of their cages and play with them each day.

Although ferret owners tend to love their pets and many can’t stop having just one, ferrets aren’t for everyone. Before you bring one of these little balls of energy into your home, there are a few things you should know.

1. Ferrets go along with everything

They dig, dig, and chew on everything—especially when they’re young—and they often steal and hide items in stash piles in closets, under beds, or any secret place they can find.

If something isn’t nailed down – especially if it’s made out of rubber or foam – it’s likely to end up in your ferret’s mouth. Swallowed foreign objects can get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract and possibly lead to blockages. Power cords are also a potential hazard.

If you are thinking of getting a ferret, plan to supervise them whenever they leave their cage. Be sure to ferret-proof an area in your home where he can safely roam; and clear away any shoes, socks, and other interesting items he might find loose on the floor.

2. Ferrets need lots of exercise

While ferrets certainly enjoy napping, they generally run, trip, and slide across the floor between naps. Young ferrets love chasing toys, biting toes and generally getting under their feet. If not allowed to leave their cages, they tend to overeat and become obese. If you have a ferret, plan in plenty of playtime.

3. Ferrets need friends

In general, ferrets are social creatures that typically seek the company of their human family or other ferrets. (Playing is just a lot more fun when you’re with your buddies.)

Because of this, many ferret owners end up getting more than one. Of course, as with other types of pets, not all ferrets are like all other ferrets.

If you decide to get more than one ferret, you will need to observe them closely together for several days at a time before leaving them alone. Also, make sure each ferret has equal access to food, toys, hiding places, and roosting so they don’t compete for resources.

4. Ferrets are illegal in some places

Before adopting or buying a ferret, check local laws. For example, if you live in California, Hawaii, or New York City, you’ll find that these fuzzy fellows are banned.

Many vets in these areas still treat sick ferrets, but it can sometimes be difficult to find a vet who is knowledgeable about ferrets in these locations. So if you live in one of these areas, you’ll need to consider a different type of pet.

5. Ferrets should be vaccinated

In many states where ferrets are legal, the law requires them to be vaccinated against rabies. Because ferrets are highly susceptible to the deadly distemper virus that commonly affects dogs, they should also be vaccinated against this virus.

Like puppies, baby ferrets should be given a series of three distemper vaccines three weeks apart from 2 months of age; They should get their first rabies vaccination at around 4 months of age.

Thereafter, they should receive annual booster shots for life for both rabies and distemper, even if they are house pets. Even if your ferret lives indoors, you can still pick up the canine distemper virus from the outside of your shoes and clothes.

Your pet may also come into contact with wildlife, such as bats, which can transmit the rabies virus.

Questions People are Asking Faerret

Can Ferrets swim in water?

If you put a ferret in a shallow pool of water, you’ll quickly find that it can swim. Wild cousins ​​often swim in rivers, streams and ponds out of necessity. Although they can swim, ferrets should never swim long distances as their bodies are not designed for the task.

Can a ferret sleep with you?

There is no right answer to this question as it depends on the owner. You can let your ferret sleep with you on the bed. It’s very adorable to snuggle up with your little fuzzy all night, but I wouldn’t recommend it. I’m a bit paranoid, I’ll hurt my ferrets if I roll over in bed and squeeze them.

Can I take my ferret for a walk?

When properly trained, many ferrets will enjoy short walks outdoors. The key to successfully leashing a ferret is to keep walks short (no more than 5-10 minutes at a time, especially if the ferret is older and may be arthritic), be patient, and not push when a ferret resists .

Do ferrets like snow?

Ferrets prefer cooler weather and even enjoy the snow! However, if it’s too cold and snowing, your ferret could freeze to death.

Do ferrets like to be held?

Ferrets are very fond of spending time with their human companions and are generally fond of being picked up and cuddled. When frightened or accidentally injured, ferrets can deliver a strong bite. It’s really important to get them used to being picked up when they’re young.

Should I bathe my ferret?

Keep the cage and bedding clean to keep your ferret smelling fresh. Bathing tends to dry out skin and coat, bathe once a month at most. Unless your ferret has gotten into something that needs washing up, a bath every two to three months is probably sufficient.

Do ferrets like car rides?

Although ferrets will probably never love the car like a dog who sticks its head out the window to smell the breeze, there are occasions when it is necessary to travel with your ferret. With the right planning and some basic gear, traveling with your ferret can be a happy and safe ride for everyone.

Can you milk a ferret?

Ferrets are lactose INTOLERANT. This means they cannot digest lactose, a sugar molecule found in milk.

Conclusion

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