PET ARTICLES BLOG

Be Knowledgeable About Ferret Care

If you own a ferret, or are thinking about adopting a ferret, you need to consider the amount of time that is required for proper ferret care. Ferrets are considered exotic pets and are part of the Mustelid family. So, they will develop an odor when they reach maturity. If you're not going to breed your ferret, then be sure to have them de-scented and neutered. De-scenting will help keep their odor under control. Neutering will prevent the chance of any unwanted litters if you are keeping two or more ferrets. Your pet will also need to see a veterinarian for vaccinations and regular check ups. Be sure to take any newly purchased animals to your vet for a check up and any necessary shots.
A ferret's diet needs to be properly balanced. Both high quality cat foods and specifically designed ferret food can be found in most pet stores. Check the labels to ensure that the brand of food you choose has at least 35% protein and 20% fat. Ferrets require higher fat levels in their food than cats do. Always make sure that your ferret has fresh water accessible. They tend to prefer bowls to water bottles and will drink less water if you use a bottle. However, if you're not able to change the water at least once each day, then you might want to consider the use of a water bottle instead.
Safe housing is a must for your ferret. Select a ferret home that is roomy, easy to clean and, of course, safe. Think about the spacing between the bars of your ferret's cage. If the ferret can force its head through any part of the cage, then that is unsafe. Also make sure that the ferret's feet can't get caught in any part of the cage you choose. Because ferrets enjoying playing and running around their cage, if you don't supply them with a proper cage they can get hurt.
Ferrets also love to sleep - from 15 to 20 hours per day. And, they like to hide is soft, dark places. They'll be happy if you provide them with sleeping sacks and hammocks which will work for both sleep and play. They might also like a quiet, private area. This can be achieved by placing a sheet over a section of their cage.
Be aware that your ferret loves to chew things. So, check your ferret's cage frequently to make sure that anything your ferret might be chewing on is either safe or is removed for its cage. If your ferret swallows a piece of plastic or fabric from something it's been chewing on, this could result in a blockage in its intestines and your pet might need surgery to have it removed.
Ferrets can be social animals. Start to introduce humans when your ferret is around 30 days old. Furthermore, you need to let your ferret get out of their cage at least twice a day, so make sure this is in a ferre-proof room. Never leave your ferret unsupervised while it is out of its cage. They might be at risk of injury.
Handle your ferret frequently so it will be easier to train. Training will help them interact with you. And, ferrets just love to cuddle, too. You can also litter train your ferret. The sooner you start the litter training process the better chance you have of succeeding.
Ferrets are both affectionate and fun. The more you socialize with them, the healthier and happier they will be.

Bringing Your Ferret Home
There's a few things that you should know before you bring your ferret home. First, pick a place where you will keep your ferret. Because this is where they're going to spend most of their time, ensure it is an area that is both safe and comfortable. You'll have lots of choices available for ferret cages. It's important that they have sufficient room to run around and that there are no gaps is the levels to prevent your ferret from getting hurt. Soft bedding is important for your ferret's safety and comfort. A cage with a plastic bottom is often easier to clean. The metal-bottomed cages are apt to rust and look grimy after several washings. If you do purchase a cage with plastic coated metal, check to be sure that your ferret isn't chewing on the plastic. If your ferret swallows bits of plastic they could cause a serious health problem that may even require surgery. Providing hammocks and sleeping sacks will not only serve to make your ferret happier but more comfortable, too. A ferret will sleep up to 20 hours every day, so providing a comfortable sleeping area is essential. Keep in mind that your ferret needs at least two hours each day outside of his cage, so you'll need to provide a ferret-proofed area in order to avoid any possible injuries.
Toys are always welcome in ferret play. But, be careful about what toys you select for your ferret. Incorrect types of toys could actually jeopardizes your ferret's life. The toys need to be able to stand up to a ferret's sharp teeth. Cat toys can be a good choice for ferrets. Stay away from any toys that are easily damaged. If you're not available to supervise, most toys should be removed from your ferret's cage. A piece of damaged toy could be disastrous for your ferret were he to swallow it.
Ferrets have a certain odor to them as they are part of the Mustelid family. Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your ferret de-scented and neutered. Your ferret will also need vaccinations and regular exams. Talk to your vet to determine the best schedule for all shots and boosters than your pet will require.
The kind of food you select for your ferret is of great importance. Be sure to select either a premium quality cat food or a specially designed ferret food that does not include protein supplied by frozen meat. If you plan to alter the brand of food they were getting from the breeder make the change very slowly. Slowly introduce the new food while also slowly decreasing the previous type of food until they are switched to the new brand. Ferrets don't really need snacks and the wrong type of snacks could cause health problems in the future. However, snacks can used as an aid for training your ferret. If you decide to let your ferret have snacks, select healthy choices like cooked eggs and meat. Surgary treats are harmful to your ferret, so be sure to avoid them.
It takes a lot of preparation to make sure that bringing your ferret home is safe and stress-free for both you and your new pet.

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