Are Ferrets Good Pets And What To Consider Before Getting One

Ferrets, carnivore polecats from the mustelid family, are playful, curious, and active pets. People consider ferrets as exotic pets because of their long, slim bodies and pointed face.

Even though people have domesticated them for over 2,500 years, many still do not keep them as pets. In the United States, ferrets are legal in most states, but some have regulations on their ownership. If you're thinking about getting a ferret, you should consider a few things first. In this article, we'll discuss whether ferrets make good pets and what you should know before getting one.

Is getting a ferret a good idea?

Don't decide to get a ferret. They are high-energy animals that need a lot of time and attention. Additionally, ferrets are "escape artists," so you must keep them in a secure home.

Ferrets are also very social animals. They don't do very well when kept alone and need the company of humans or other animals. If you work full-time or often stay away from home, a ferret is not the right choice for you.

They can make excellent pets if you are a true animal lover and have the time to commit to your pet. Ferrets are not common like other pets such as dogs and cats. They are often kept as exotic pets in countries like America, Australia, Britain, Europe, New Zealand, and Japan. [1]

Are ferrets easy to take care of?

If you consider caring for a dog or a cat too much work, then a ferret is not the right pet for you. Ferrets need much time and attention, like any other pet. They also have special needs, such as a diet rich in protein and fat and plenty of space to run and play.

While caring for pet ferrets, ferret proofing is also important. This means ensuring your home is safe for a ferret, as they are escape artists who can squeeze into small spaces.

They also need routine veterinary care, such as vaccinations and check-ups. Ferrets are also prone to several health problems, such as Rabies and Distemper. So you must prepare for unexpected vet bills. [2]

Before you get a ferret, be sure to do your research and learn everything you can about them. This will help you decide if a ferret is the right pet for you.

Having a pet, like a ferret, can make you feel better and less alone. They give you company and can boost your self-worth and purpose. So, getting a ferret means adding a loving member to your family and taking a step to improve your well-being. [3]

How long do ferrets live?

Ferrets live for 5 to 11 years. The report says that older ferrets, around 3 to 4 years old, often get sick with issues like hormone disorders, stomach problems, tumors, heart diseases, kidney problems, tooth diseases, and cataracts. [4]

They generally die after the onset of geriatric diseases. So, knowing these diseases and taking care of them at an early stage is crucial to extending their lifespan.

What do ferrets eat?

Ferrets are obligate carnivores and need a diet that is rich in protein and fat. [5] A good ferret diet consists of:

• Raw meat
• Bones
• Organ meats
• Commercial ferret food
• Ferret supplements

A high-quality diet with much protein and fat is essential for a ferret's health. Pet ferrets can also eat cat food in moderate amounts, but cat food should not be the only thing they eat.

How much space do ferrets need?

Ferrets are very active pets and need a lot of space to run and play. A ferret-proofed room or large cage is essential for their health and well-being.

Because they are escape artists, you should house them in a secure cage when you leave them alone or unsupervised. The smallest ferret cage measures 24" x 24" x 18" high (60 x 60 x 45 cm).You must ventilate the cage.

How many ferrets can you have?

Ferrets are not solitary animals and do not do well when left alone. They need to be around people or other animals. For this reason, it's best to have more than one ferret. [6]

Ferrets as pets pros And cons

If you hope to buy a ferret as your new pet, you should know that this decision has pros and cons. Here are some key aspects to consider:

PROS

• Ferrets are small and cute

Anyone who owns a ferret knows they are cute creatures. With their long, slim bodies and fluffy tails, ferrets have a unique look that is sure to melt any heart.

They are also small in size, making them easy to carry around and take with you on trips. The size of an adult ferret is between 15 and 16 inches long. Male ferrets are usually larger than female ferrets. So, a ferret is a good option if you would like a cute, small animal as your pet.

• Ferrets are playful creatures

In addition to being cute, ferrets are also very playful. Ferrets love playing with their toys and often try to hide them from you. This playful nature can make them great companions, as they will always be up for a game.

• Ferrets are social animals

Ferrets are social creatures and need to be around people or other ferrets. They do not do well when left alone and can become depressed. For this reason, it's best to have at least two ferrets.

Although ferrets love playing with other ferrets, they still need love and affection from their owners, which makes them good pets. So, if you love being with your pet all the time, ferrets can be great pets.

• Ferrets are intelligent and have distinct personalities

Like dogs, ferrets are very intelligent animals, each with a distinct personality. You will never be bored with your ferret as they will always be doing something new. Ferrets are also quick learners and can be trained to perform tricks like dogs and cats.

• Ferrets are relatively easy to care for

Ferrets do not require a lot of exercise and can be litter trained relatively easily. Ferrets also do not need to be bathed often and only require a few hours of playtime each day.

CONS

• Ferrets have a strong odor

One of the biggest drawbacks of keeping a ferret is its very strong odor. This is due to their high levels of testosterone and their natural oils. The smell can be overpowering and difficult to remove from your home.

Ferrets are also known to mark their territory with urine, which can worsen the smell. Many owners complain that the smell of their ferret's cage is so strong that it can be difficult even to enter the room.

So, if you are sensitive to strong odors or do not like the idea of your home smelling like a ferret, this may not be the right pet for you.

• Ferrets are escape artists

Ferrets are curious creatures and love to play and explore. This can often lead to them escaping from their cages or home. Ferrets are also known to be escape artists and can squeeze through very small spaces.

This means that you will need to keep a close eye on your pet ferret and ensure their cage is secure. If you are not willing to do this, then a ferret may not be the right pet.

• Ferrets can be aggressive

Ferrets are naturally curious animals and will often play-bite as part of their play. However, some ferrets can be aggressive and may bite more often than others. This is normally due to a lack of socialization or if they feel threatened.

If you have small children or are not comfortable around animals that may bite, then a ferret is probably not the right pet for you.

• Ferrets need a specific diet to be healthy

Ferrets have a very specific diet that they need to be healthy. This diet includes high levels of protein, fat, and some essential vitamins and minerals.

Additionally, some foods are toxic to ferrets and can make them very ill. For example, grapes, chocolate, and dairy products can all be harmful to ferrets. 

Ferrets require meat and other meaty foods in their diet, which can be expensive. If you do not want to spend the money on good quality ferret food, then a ferret is probably not the right pet for you.

• Ferrets are not suitable for everyone

Ferrets are not suitable for everyone, and some people should not own one. This includes people who are allergic to animals, people with small children, and those who are unwilling to spare the time and effort required to care for a ferret.

Owning a ferret is a big responsibility and should not be taken lightly. If you are not sure if you are ready for the commitment, then it is best to wait until you are sure before getting a ferret.

What do I need to know before getting a ferret?

Now that you understand the pros and cons of owning a ferret, you must decide if this is the correct pet for you.

If you've determined that a ferret is an ideal pet for you, there are a few things you should know before getting one.

• Ferrets need annual veterinarian visits

Like every other pet, ferrets have their own set of health concerns that require veterinary care. Ferrets are prone to diseases such as rabies, Ferret systemic coronaviral disease (FSCD), Scabies, Gastrointestinal stasis, and more. 

Ferrets are prone to Zoonotic diseases, Viral Diseases, Fungal Diseases, Skin Diseases as well as Respiratory Disorders. [7] [8] [9] [10]

To help prevent these diseases, take your ferret to the vet at least once a year for check-ups and vaccinations.

• Ferrets are also required to be spayed or neutered

All ferrets must be spayed or neutered before they can go home with you. This is because ferrets can reproduce very quickly and easily, which can lead to an overpopulation problem.

Spaying or neutering your ferret will also help reduce aggression and make them better pets overall.

• Ferrets need a lot of exercises

Ferrets are very active creatures and need a lot of exercises. They should have at least four hours of playtime outside of their cage every day.

You can let them run around your house or yard or take them to a ferret-friendly park.

• Ferrets also need to be trained

Like any other pet, ferrets need to be trained. They need to learn how to use a litter box and how not to bite.

Ferrets are intelligent creatures and can be trained relatively easily. However, it will take time and patience to do so.

• The costs of owning a ferret can be high

The upfront cost of buying a ferret can be relatively cheap, depending on where you get it from. However, the ongoing costs of owning a ferret can be expensive.

This is because they require a lot of exercises, a good quality diet, and annual vet visits. If you are unwilling to lose money on these things, a ferret is probably not the best pet for you.

Conclusion

So, are ferrets good pets when it comes to their care? Ferrets can be wonderful pets for those who understand their care needs. They are intelligent, playful, and relatively easy to train. However, they might not be the best choice for everyone.

Before getting a ferret, you should weigh the pros and cons of ownership, the costs, and the specifics of ferret care. If you are ready for the commitment and their unique care requirements, a ferret might be the ideal pet for you.

FAQ

1. Science Direct: Chapter 12 - Ferrets
2. NIH: Vaccination of Ferrets for Rabies and Distemper
3. Pubmed: People's Mental Health and Pets
4. National Library of Medicine: Endocrinopathy and Aging in Ferrets
5. NIH: Ferret nutrition
6. NIH: Ferret Behavior Medicine
7. NIH: Viral Diseases
8. NIH: Fungal Diseases
9. NIH: Skin Diseases
10. NIH: Respiratory Disorders