Pet Ferrets 101: A Beginner’s Guide To Keeping a Ferret as a Pet

Fun Facts About Ferrets

• The name ferret is derived from the Latin word furittus, which translates to “little thief.”
• Ferrets have a naturally musky odor from their anal glands and sebaceous glands in their skin.
• They were domesticated about 2,500 years ago and are descendants of the European polecat.
• A female ferret is referred to as a jill or sprite (if she’s spayed) while a male ferret is referred to as a hob or gib (if neutered). Baby ferrets are called kits.
• Ferrets aren’t legal to own in every state or city. (e.g., California, Hawaii and New York City ban them.) Many states and cities require annual licensing fees.

Ferret Supply Checklist

• Wire cage
• Flooring material
• Food and water dishes
• Litter box
• Litter
• Toys
• Soft bedding
• Ferret-proofing materials
• High-quality, protein-rich ferret food
• Water

Habitat

Before bringing a ferret home, you’ll need to make sure you have everything on hand to build them a proper, safe habitat. Teresa Manucy, DVM, a veterinarian based in Jacksonville, Florida, and pet health representative for Chewy, says a ferret habitat has some unique traits. Let’s dive in.

Enclosure

Ferrets require a wire/metal, open-air enclosure that allows for good airflow. This gives them ample ability to breathe, and it also prevents them from living in an environment of trapped odors. For a single ferret, the cage should be at least 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep by 2 feet high. Depending on the size of your ferret, a larger cage can be used.

“There should be narrowed slats between the wires because they tend to squeeze between openings quite readily,” Dr. Manucy says. “The enclosure should also have a latch that they can’t pop open.” A great example is the Yaheetech Small Pet Cage.

Diet

Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are made to digest meat-based materials. They aren’t able to process plant matter, carbohydrates and sugar (even fruits), so avoid giving them these items.

“There are commercial versions of ferret food, which are the most appropriate for them since it's hard to ensure the proper amounts, and the proper quality of the balance and nutrition,” Dr. Manucy says. Some great options include the Wysong Epigen 90 Ferret Food and Marshall Ferret Food. Cat food can come in handy in a pinch, but Dr. Manucy says it’s best to stick to a ferret diet.

How Often To Feed Your Ferret

Follow your vet’s guidance regarding how often to feed your ferret. Generally, you should offer your ferret small meals to help mimic their natural feeding habits. This typically means providing high-quality, protein-rich ferret food and ensuring their food bowl is always stocked.

Water Requirements

Fresh water should be available at all times to keep your ferret hydrated, says Dr. Manucy. She also recommends changing it daily so it remains fresh and enticing, and to limit bacterial growth.

Are Treats OK?

Dr. Manucy says she wouldn’t recommend giving your ferret treats. “Those tend to be more grain-based, and ferrets, because they're strict carnivores, don't do well with the non meat-based ingredients,” she says.

What Not To Feed Ferrets

Ferrets are carnivores with sensitive digestive systems, so it's crucial to avoid feeding them certain foods, including:

• Dairy
• Carbohydrates
• Sugars
• High-fat foods
• Plant-based items (like fruits and vegetables)
• Raw meat (to avoid exposure to Salmonella or Campylobacter)

Also make sure to avoid bones, since they can splinter and injure ferrets’ GI tracts.

Handling Your Ferret

Ferrets have long and slender bodies, which can put these small animals at risk of injury when being held, notes Dr. Manucy. It’s very important to remain gentle when picking up, holding or petting your ferret.

When holding them, scoop them up gently, making sure to support their chest with one hand and their hindquarters with the other. Avoid grabbing or squeezing them tightly, which can stress them out. When petting, stroke their back and sides gently, and avoid touching sensitive areas like their ears or tail unless necessary.

As always, keep an eye on their body language and respect their boundaries. You can build trust through positive interactions, which will help strengthen your bond, and ensure a positive experience for both you and your pet ferret.

Maintaining Your Ferret’s Health

As a pet parent, it’s important to provide ongoing ferret care to ensure your pet can lead a happy, fulfilling and healthy life.

Signs of a Healthy Pet Ferret

Here are some of the key signs your pet ferret is healthy, according to Dr. Manucy.

• Shiny, full coat
• A healthy weight (not too thin or obese)
• Consistent, solid stool
• Urinating normally and regularly
• Have a sense of playfulness and good energy

Common Health Problems

These little guys are susceptible to certain diseases and illnesses like other pets. Common health issues in ferrets include the following:

• Hairballs
• Dental disease
• Heart disease
• Adrenal disease
• Insulinoma
• GI tract problems, including blockages caused by ingesting foreign objects
• Respiratory infections
• Parasites, such as fleas, ticks and ear mites
• Skin conditions like dermatitis and hair loss due to poor diet or allergies

When To See Your Vet

Arrange a visit with your vet as soon as you adopt your pet ferret or purchase from a breeder. At their initial checkup, your vet will inspect your ferret for signs of illness so you can treat any issues right away. They’ll also recommend certain vaccinations, including a rabies vaccine and canine distemper vaccine, since ferrets are highly susceptible to these.

Like other animals, your pet ferret requires an annual vet visit. During these appointments, your vet will perform a thorough physical exam and may take blood samples to get a better idea of their current health. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of pet ferrets.

How To Find a Ferret Vet

The American Ferret Association maintains a worldwide database of ferret veterinarians. You can also find recommendations by joining ferret owner groups and forums, where you can get word-of-mouth recommendations for trustworthy ferret vets. Some veterinarian offices that usually care for cats and dogs may be able to provide some resources as well.

FAQs About Pet Ferrets