Handling and Restraint

Most ferrets are docile and can be examined easily without assistance for restraint. However, an assistant is usually needed when the rectal temperature is taken, when injections or oral medications are administered, or if the animal has a tendency to bite. One method of restraint is to scruff the back of the neck and suspend the ferret with all four legs off the table. This is normally only needed when giving injections or in other situations where the ferret would tend to bite.

 

Vaccinations

Ferrets should be vaccinated annually for Canine Distemper and Rabies. Currently there is only one approved rabies vaccine for ferrets, IMRAB 3® which is produced by Merial.  There are several acceptable distemper vaccines on the market.

 

Housing

Optimum nest material for a ferret is shavings or composite recycled pellets. They like to burrow into soft cloth so they should sleep with a towel, blanket, or sweater in a hammock or box. The ideal cage temperature is 60° F to 75° F, and the lighting should be on for 12 to 16 hours per day. They like to sleep in the dark. Ferret cages need to be escape proof! Their tubular shape and flexibility allows them to pass between the bars of the average clinic cage and escape.

 

Feeding

Ferrets are true carnivores, therefore, they cannot handle more than 4% fiber in their diets. Food intake per day is approximately 20-40g for an adult. Fresh water must always be accessible. Specially formulated commercial ferret foods are available and recommended. Although ferrets enjoy sweets, dairy products, raisins, fruits and vegetables, ingestion should be limited. Many of these will produce diarrhea and ferrets cannot digest the fiber in many fruits and vegetables.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

· What is a Ferret-Free Zone?

They are states or localities where ferrets are banned or illegal.

 

· Are ferrets nocturnal?

Ferrets are not exclusively diurnal or nocturnal: they are usually most active in the early morning and evening but their natural schedule can be changed to coincide with their owners.

 

· Should ferrets be caged all of the time?

They are best suited to run around free in the home, where they can be taught to use a litter box like a cat. It is advisable to have a litter box in every room or area where the ferret spends a great deal of time. Place litter boxes in corners. However, when unattended, they should be caged. This prevents damage to your home, and prevents the dangers of injury, toxicity and escape of the ferret.

 

· Are ferrets noisy?

Ferrets are quiet. The only vocalizations they make are chuckles and giggles during play. Occasionally ferrets will whine or cry when they want something, or if they are in pain or ill.

 

· How long to pet ferrets normally live?

They normally live about 5-8 years.

Ferrets