They are, like cats and dogs, carnivores and need to be fed accordingly. You should consult your local vet or pet shop for the perfect food for ferrets, but you should be able to find suitable food at any major super store.
You should never keep them caged unless for a particular reason and for a short time. You should allow them the freedom to roam about the house and express themselves. However, you need to be sure to arrange things so that they cannot hurt themselves and make sure you do not leave dangerous objects around the house.
They are primarily creatures of habit, but will often feel like doing different things at different times. A good owner will spend time playing with them and embracing their personality and should never consider this a chore.
During the right time of year, it is also common to be able to take your ferret or ferrets out on a walk. A few kilometres should be easily doable and will help to erase some of the natural energy that the ferret has.
Ferrets need friends. Its probably best to have more than one ferret as a pet as they need a lot of attention. However, don’t assume that all ferrets will get along. Like cats, some will like playing together and others will tend to fight.
Another reason to have at least two ferrets is in case of the loss of one of them. A young kit cannot replace a ferret you have lived with for years. Having at least two will therefore allow you to replace your deceased ferret whilst maintaining the others you already know and love.
They can be expensive. Buying them, getting vaccinations and insurance can cost a bit, but you will no doubt save money on other things with all the time you devote to their attention. Make sure also to have food and water avaiable at all times for them to graze on. Unlike certain dogs, they will refrain from eating the entire stock if you leave it out for them.
Ferrets do a very good job cleaning themselves and maintain a gorgeous fluffy fur coat without the need to bathe them. However, you may need to clip their nails if they do not spend much time outdoors. Running on hard surfaces will help to grind down their claws. For litter training you need not worry, as they easily grasp it as young kits.
If you really want a fun and playful, curious and mischievous pet then look no further than getting a ferret. They are slightly alternative to your regular cat, but will provide just as much, if not more, entertainment.
Toby Rutherford is a recognized authority on ferret. To find all your queries answered concerning bringing a ferret home visit his blog on ferret care.
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