Before you purchase a ferret, make sure it's legal to own one where you live. In many places, ferrets are still not legally recognized as a domesticated animal for the purposes of keeping one as a pet. please install the latest version of Flash. As a close relative to the weasel, they’re very different than traditional pets. At a pet store, you'll see ferrets in the cages next to other relatively easy-to-care-for small mammals like guinea pigs and hamsters, but don't be fooled. With mischievous eyes and sweet faces, ferrets are undeniably adorable. Here are some interesting facts about ferrets worth knowing Adult Size: 13 to 16 inches long; weighing up to 3 1/2 pounds, Life Expectancy: 8 to 11 years in captivity. If you own a ferret as a pet, then it can be challenging to find someone who will care for them because of their maintenance requirements. Hey Creatures! With these simple dental care tips, you can help keep your canine’s adorable smile shiny and healthy for life. Ferrets are very nearsighted, but they compensate with a keen sense of hearing and smell. The result is that many ferrets are surrendered for reasons familiar to any animal shelter: Kids have lost interest or gone … Clay has had more than 3,000 ferrets pass through her shelter since it started. Ferrets Aren’t Rodents. Ferrets were rarely kept as pets until the 1980s but are still closely regulated in many areas. Most owners spend around $25 a month on ferret food. Females ferrets usually grow to 13 to 14 inches long and weigh anywhere from three-quarters of a pound to two and a half pounds. It didn't let go for some time, so I got a pencil out and gave it a thump. They are very sociable and make good pets, however they behave strangely sometimes, which make their owner worried. They make incredible pets, but any ferret owner will tell you How To Take Care Of A … Sailors kept ferrets on ships to control rats. "In general, a cage is where they sleep," says Johnson. Surprising Facts About Ferrets Ferrets are amazing animals with a range of beautiful traits that are often misunderstood. The temperature near the cage should be free of any drafts but not in an area that gets too warm. They are a small size and can provide your family with a ... Ferrets Are Playful and Curious. Ferrets need flea and heartworm disease preventative. They are inquisitive, playful and endlessly amusing. Note that the domestic ferret is sometimes confused with its wild cousin, the black-footed ferret; make sure you are researching the right species. They come in colors of black, brown and white. Like dogs, ferrets are social and crave the company of people. Domesticated ferrets most likely descend from the European polecat. Like other pets, ferrets often end up in rescue because someone didn't do his research; it turns out that caring for a ferret is way more complicated and costly than you might expect. Some Ferrets are Professionals. Ferrets … Vetstreet. These creatures are smart and curious and can fit through small spaces you might have overlooked. Female ferrets are called jills, and males are hobs. Ferrets have relatively poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell and hearing. Ferrets make interesting pets. Adrenal gland disease is perhaps the most common health concern in ferrets. Symptoms of adrenal gland disease include hair loss, genital inflammation, itchiness, and aggression or irritability. Top 10 Reasons Ferrets Make Good Pets. This is true even for ferrets kept indoors, as fleas can come in from outside, especially if there are dogs and cats in the home. Ferrets are not rodents, with the domestic species of ferret having being bred in captivity for centuries, originally for hunting vermin and then for the popular sport of hunting rabbits or ‘ferreting’. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020. If the video doesn't start playing momentarily, © Like cats, they sleep a lot and can be trained to use a litter box. If you do procure a ferret for a pet, be sure you are dealing with a reputable breeder who has records for your animal's vaccinations and any health issues. When she and volunteers do home inspections, Johnson says, "One of the first questions I ask is, 'Are your heating vents on the floor or the ceiling?'". Here are 10 facts as to why ferrets make the best pets: 1. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. You will need to feed your new pet 3-4 times per day to ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition levels. Like this article? Powered by Brightspot. Ferrets are playful, mischievous, entertaining little animals who can bring endless enjoyment to a family. Bartonella is a type bacteria that can be transmitted to cats, dogs and humans from exposure to infected fleas and…. Generally speaking, ferrets and very young children do not mix well, as ferrets have a tendency to bite if they are not handled gently. They’re known to steal and hide small items. Fact 2: Ferrets are popular pets and are often used in veterinary research. 5. © 2001-2021  Most ferrets obtained in North America are spayed or neutered and also de-scented at a very young age before being sold. Finally, ferrets can’t really be trusted with smaller pets such as mice, rats and even rabbits, if these pets are already part of your family then a ferret is probably not ideal. Since they sleep for long stretches during the day, most ferrets don't mind spending time in a cage. Keep soft bedding on the floor of your ferret's enclosure. Make sure it has a sturdy double-secured latch on the door because these animals are often smart enough to figure out how to open latches and clasps. Vetstreet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. ... Researching and Preparing for a Pet Ferret . It may cost a bit more than going to a pet store, but you are more likely to get an animal that has been well cared for and is healthy. Make sure they always have access to fresh, clean, non-chlorinated water as well.. Ferrets have a very high metabolism, so they need to eat several small meals throughout the day rather than eating larger meals once or twice. Come and learn over 50 amazing facts about the incredible domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo). Here is an example to tell you how ancient these pets are. Clay says that she's proactive about looking for cruelty and neglect, but that she often finds that both start with people who meant well and found themselves in over their heads. Here are some of the top 10 facts about ferrets that you should be aware of before bringing them home as your pets. It is highly recommended you consider adopting a pair of ferrets so they will always have a companion to socialize with. Baby ferrets are called kits. TAGS; Facts about Ferrets as Pets; Ferrets, the long-bodied weasel lookalikes that reside in some 300,000 U.S. households, are a less common pet than cats and dogs yet they've managed to … She was constantly dealing with the sad situation of wonderful people who really didn't want to give up their animals. They have been used as pets for a long time now. Wonder which dog or cat best fits your lifestyle? Ferrets are a high-maintenance pet. Courtney Ferrets as pets October 30, 2019 fun facts about ferrets, what are ferrets Thinking about picking up a new pet? However, ferret scent gland secretions are milder than those of skunks and the smell dissipates quickly and washes away easily. All rights reserved. "The majority of people who call want young ferrets," she says. Ferrets also require quality cages, which can range anywhere between $60.00 and $500.00 per cage. "Ferrets are the most expensive small pet to own," says Johnson. Others fall in love when they meet a friend’s ferret or see one online or on television. The ideal temperature for a ferret is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people keep them as pets to catch rabbits or rats. While ferrets love to cuddle and play, they have a naughty side. They are cuddly, interactive, spunky pets who can be great for owners who have time to take them out of their cages every day and play with them. An Overview Of Ferret Adrenal Disease. They are inquisitive, playful and they love all sorts of interaction with their owners, which is why they are such nice animals to have around the home. Check the local laws and regulations for owning ferrets. Ferrets are an excellent choice if you are looking for nice, intelligent creatures that reciprocate your love. "Good people lost their homes as a result of losing their jobs and their incomes," she says. Take our breed quiz to find your next pet. © FACTS ABOUT FERRETS AS PETS Ferrets are more popular than you think. Unlike other domestic pets, ferrets are carnivores. Photo courtesy of Rocky's Ferret Rescue and Shelter. "One day, I had a family pull up here to give me their ferret who had become sick; they were living in their van.". Our new tool will narrow down more than 300 breeds for you. They loved these animals, but it was bad judgment. The distant ancestry of the domestic ferret is somewhat of a mystery, although they are very closely related to the European polecat. 2001-2021  The word "ferret" is Latin for "little thief" (and that is extremely accurate!). 19 Ferret Facts You Need To Know. Ferrets Are Intelligent. It is likely that that is how ferrets came to North America in the 1700s.By the 1800s, ferrets were commonly used as pets, and often given as gifts to visiting heads of state. Ferrets are wonderful, wildly entertaining, and highly energetic animals. Why Pet Ferrets Are Worth All of the Trouble by renaissanceferret. New York City, for instance, instituted an infamous ferret ban in 1999, and the animals are illegal as pets in most of California as well. Vetstreet. Other possible health problems with ferrets should be diagnosed by your veterinarian, so note any symptoms that seem abnormal. The practice then spread across Europe. Have a point of view to share? See Additional Information ›. Ferrets come from the same family (Mustelidae) as badgers, wolverines, otters, mink, weasels, black-footed ferrets, and polecats. Powered by Brightspot. You can dress them in short t-shirts that make them look like a small baby. Female ferrets are called jills, and males are hobs. "You think of backyard breeders; you think of some horrible person — it just wasn't the case. I’d love to hear all the stories and see the pictures from first time ferret owners, and to know if you’re really happy with your choice of pet or if you think you made a huge mistake by getting a ferret. A rather fascinating, amusing and adventurous creature, Ferrets are quirky little animals belonging to mustelid family including weasels, minks, badgers and Wolverine. We’ve got the skinny on which foods are OK to feed him. If youre considering purchasing a ferret, learn more about their care needs, including wha… Here are some of the top 10 facts about ferrets that you should be aware of before bringing them home as your pets. Useful Facts About Ferrets as Pets How to Properly Feed Your Pet Ferret. On average, they rehab and rehome 300 ferrets per year. Want to give your pup yummy, low-calorie treats? Ferrets, like other exotic animals, have been banned as pets in some places. There are often misconceptions about whether ferrets are domesticated, and the short answer is that they are. Ferrets are not totally nocturnal, but they do tend to sleep for a large part of the day; they are most active at dawn and dusk. However, they usually adapt their sleeping and active times to fit the schedules of their owners.​ Ideally, ferrets should be kept in a pair or a small group. Contrary to popular belief, ferrets are not a member of the rodent family. That being said, ferrets can make great pets for families with older children provided they are supervised and shown how to correctly handle them. They are very sociable and make good pets, however they behave strangely sometimes, which make their owner worried. Ferrets natural play includes nipping and training is required to ensure your ferret knows that nipping humans is not an acceptable behavior. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Lianne is a veterinarian, epidemiologist, and freelance writer who's written nearly 400 articles for The Spruce Pets. Ferrets are domesticated, colored European polecats. Ferrets belong to the Mustelidae family, other members of which include weasels, otters, and badgers. However, ferrets as pets have unique needs and the key to keeping them healthy and happy is to accommodate these needs. Ferrets belong to the weasel family (Mustelidae), which includes polecats, stoats, and ermines. They also need time and social interaction that's more on par with a dog . Some US states require a permit as well, especially for breeding. Thousands of year ago, ferrets were tamed and domesticated so they could be used to chase rabbits out of their holes for hunting. Vetstreet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Poor diet and a lack of UVB light are believed to be contributing factors, and some researchers believe the early spaying of ferrets (recommended to prevent aplastic anemia) may also play a role. TAGS; Facts about Ferrets as Pets; Males smell really bad when they are in heat, so they have to be de-sexed as well. 10. "I have found a lot of people with good hearts and bad judgment," she says, like in the rescue of 200 ferrets that started her shelter in 1995. Check out our collection of more than 250 videos about pet training, animal behavior, dog and cat breeds and more. It is true that they have a distinctive musky odor, but it is neither offensive nor overpowering. Having pets is an expensive hobby, and this is something to consider regarding the facts about ferrets as pets. They have been domesticated for probably 2,000 years or more and were brought to America as pets as long as 300 years ago. The rest end up staying with her because they're sick or too old. Ferrets are a high-maintenance pet. The ancient Greeks probably domesticated ferrets about 2,500 years ago to hunt vermin, according to the Woodland Park Zoo. 2001-2021  His lively curiosity, love of adventure, and unconcerned, comic clumsiness contribute to his considerable charm. Please enter an address, city and/or zip code. 1  A group of ferrets is called a "business of ferrets." And they need a safe place to spend that time out of the cage — ideally, a room that's been ferret proofed, which isn't easy. They are smart and very curious and thus require training and lots of interaction with people. Ferrets Should Be Spayed Or Neutered. Let us know! Since food passes through a ferret's digestive system relatively quickly, make food readily available to ferrets all the time; unlike many animals, they rarely overeat. Their scent glands are similar to that of a skunk, and they will release (not spray) the contents if threatened. The friendly and inquisitive LaPerm has an easy-care coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. But the truth is, ferrets are in a category all their own. If you have a female ferret and you don’t want breeding, it is a must to have her de-sexed. They are domesticated animals, cousins of the European fitch or polecat. Ferrets are Carnivores. Just like cats and dogs, ferrets are susceptible to flea infestation and deadly heartworm infection. Ferret owners can attest that this is a well-deserved name, as they will happily steal anything they can get their paws on only to hide it in their house. Males smell really bad when they are in heat, so they have to be de-sexed as well. Ferrets are playful pets that are also very entertaining to watch. While occasional baths are recommended, frequent bathing will not reduce the scent and will likely make it worse. As the skin gets dry, the glands will produce more odorous oils in an effort to combat the dryness. Ferrets get a bad rap. If you own a ferret as a pet, then it can be challenging to find someone who will care for them because of their maintenance requirements. These were nice people. Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital, 2020, Ferret Dentistry. Ferrets belong to the same family as the weasel, and their fur is normally brown, black, white, or mixed in color. Fun Interesting Facts About Ferrets There's no doubt whatsoever that ferrets are some of the most amusing creatures to keep as pets. Ferrets Are Cute. Here are some interesting facts about ferrets worth knowing: Ferrets Are Sociable, Friendly, and Affectionate. You will need to feed your new pet 3-4 times per day to ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition levels. People who've found they made a mistake getting a ferret often expected a pet who stays in her cage all the time. Ferrets are highly intelligent and social pets that do best in small groups. In North America, ferrets are usually de-scented; this procedure involves the removal of the scent glands. Ferrets belong to the weasel family (Mustelidae), which includes polecats, stoats, and ermines. In North America, spayed females are sometimes called sprites, and neutered males are called gibs. Ferrets love burrowing, and this skill is used professionally. Grains are not recommended for ferrets since they are difficult for the animals to digest. Since they can't absorb nutrients from plants, these animals need a diet of animal proteins and fat. Before trying to pet the ferret, I put on a glove and left plenty of slack at the tip of one finger. Our veterinarian reveals why the payoff for your pet is well worth any extra work. Ferrets have a reputation for being smelly pets. With their friendly, inquisitive natures and furry, cuddly bodies, ferrets make great pets, given the right pet parents. I gently reached out to pet the ferret, and the ferret clamped down hard with its teeth on the tip of the glove. They love to hunt and eat small animals in the wild. Instead, they need at least 4 hours a day out of the cage. It is illegal to keep pet ferrets in Australia and New Zealand except with a license. They're supposedly smelly and bitey, and in some places they're illegal to own, despite the fact that they've been domesticated for centuries. Ferret as Pet If you like furry little things that snuggle up to you, play around with you, and are just so cute that you can’t stop the oohs and aahs then, Ferrets are the ideal pets for you. [6] Ferrets are known as obligate carnivores and must eat nearly constantly. Having pets is an expensive hobby, and this is something to consider regarding the facts about ferrets as pets. Ferrets are often compared to cats and dogs. They also need time and social interaction that's more on par with a dog. Source: pets4home.co.uk, image: Flickr. Most ferrets live for about six to eight years, though some pet ferrets can live up to 12 years. Meat, eggs, and coldwater fish are excellent foods for ferrets; avoid foods that are high in sugar or fiber. Most ferrets are sold fixed already – … One alert look from the intelligent, little bandit face of a ferret can entrance you. When she first saw one at the veterinary clinic she worked at, Claudia Johnson says, "I remember being afraid of it." The reason they do is because by nature these funny little creatures love to burrow. All rights reserved. [6] Ferrets are fairly expensive and can cost around $100.00 from a pet store. And Johnson says that while she places 25 to 30 ferrets per year on average, she takes in more like 70 to 100. Rabbit hunting with ferrets is a popular sport in England. "Ferrets are the most expensive small pet to own," says Johnson. Here are some interesting facts about ferrets worth knowing They are smart and very curious and thus require training and lots of interaction with people. A group of ferrets is called a "business of ferrets." Ferrets are playful pets that are also very entertaining to watch. If you're not sure about owning a ferret, or if you live in an area where they are not permitted to be kept as pets, consider these other exotic species: Otherwise, check out other exotic animals that can be your pet. Powered by Brightspot. Make sure there are always toys present for your ferret to play with and chew on. Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital, 2020, ​Lymphoma In Ferrets. Domestic ferrets are fussy eaters. If you assume that ferrets are wild animals, think again. Surprising Facts About Ferrets Ferrets are amazing animals with a range of beautiful traits that are often misunderstood. Ferrets have a habit of digging their food out of their bowls which many owners find a little mystifying! Read our, Identifying and Treating Common Ferret Diseases, The Different Types of Domesticated Ferrets, Towards a More Natural Ferret Diet - Whole Prey and Raw Foods, Ferrets Banned in New York City and Beyond. Vetstreet. For some, ferrets are a love at first sight. While the sausage-shaped, carnivorous ferret might not be the first animal that comes to mind when considering a cuddly pal, millions of people around the world, past and present, have enjoyed the company It's frustrating to hear those excuses over and over, but Barbara Clay, directorof Rocky's Ferret Rescue & Shelter, says what was almost worse were the stories she heard when the economy went bad and surrenders increased dramatically. Not sure about food puzzles? Domesticated ferrets most likely descend from the European polecat. The name ferret is derived from the Latin furonem, which means "thief." Ferrets … Baby ferrets are called kits. Johnson has come a long way since then: She now cares for more than 70 ferrets at Oxford Ferret Rescue in Fawn Grove, Pa., one of many ferret rescues across the country. This means you'll need to ferret-proof your house, then go through and ferret-proof it again! Ferrets are adorable. A ferret's high metabolism means it needs to eat about every three to four hours. All rights reserved. This is Logan, one of many ferrets who have been rescued by Rocky's Ferret Rescue and Shelter. With their bright eyes, inquisitive nature and small size, ferrets are a delight to be around. Keeping Ferrets as Pets: 10 Things You Need to Know Before You Get One 1. If you have a female ferret and you don’t want breeding, it is a must to have her de-sexed. The ferrets run into rabbit holes to run the prey out of hiding. Same-sex litter mates or neutered males and females can be kept happily together. Adults weigh between 1 ½-5 pounds, with males growing larger than females. Ferret Facts . Fact 1: Ferrets are the domesticated version of the European polecat (also known as the ‘common ferret’). Fun Facts About Ferrets. To start, let's take a look at some fun, general facts about ferrets! Ferrets have a long history with humans, starting as a hunter’s aid to flush out rabbits and increasingly becoming pets living inside our homes. New Pet / 19 Ferret Facts You Need To Know. Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital, 2020, Ferrets. Scientists believe... 2. I don't think I will be getting a ferret as a pet. They make the best candidate for photos. 5. The result is that many ferrets are surrendered for reasons familiar to any animal shelter: Kids have lost interest or gone to college, or people say they just don't have time. Male ferrets are often slightly larger. 10- Ancient pets It has been over 2500 years since ferrets have been domesticated, making them one of the most ancient pets in the world. But it's recommended that they spend a minimum of four hours outside the cage every day. I rescued everything that had a breath left in its body, and I had them sign an agreement that they would never do this again.". 9. This smell comes from glands in their skin and is present whether the ferret is de-scented or not.