Ferrets are becoming quite a trendy pet in certain areas of the United States and with this trend comes the need for proper training in ferret care. Possibly the most important question you can ask as you prepare to take on a ferret as a pet is whether or not you are prepared to be a ferret owner. Sadly, there are far too many people who do not take this into consideration and ferret abandonment has become a legitimate concern.
Here are some things you should know and consider before saying “yes” to becoming a ferret owner:
- Ferrets are lovable and cute. They also have the potential to be high maintenance animals. Some sources recommend that owners should be willing to devote two hours a day to playing with their ferrets. If you live on an extremely hectic schedule, you should keep this in mind. Many people cannot find two hours to devote to their own children.
- Ferret care will involve some set up expense as you will be needing ferret pet supplies like a suitable cage, bedding, toys and a safe area to keep your new pet.
- Veterinary care is a must with Ferrets. Along with the basic visits that you might be familiar with as a dog or cat owner, ferrets can sometimes have their own special issues that can be expensive to deal with as they occur. Also, not all vet clinics will take on a ferret as a patient. Before adopting a ferret, be sure that you have a veterinarian in your area who will deal with him or her. If you don’t, then ask yourself if you are willing to drive the miles required to get to the nearest small animal veterinarian.
- Ferrets can be a bit smelly. Although most are sold “fixed” and de-scented now, you should consider this if you are extremely sensitive to odors.
- Your house will have to be ferret proofed to keep your ferret safe. You must make sure that your pet ferret cannot fit into anything inviting like a heating duct or small holes in the wall. Also, common hazards like electrical cords and poisonous substances must be put safely out of harms way before your curious new friend can find them.
- If you have other pets, be sure that they will be able to live with having a new pet ferret in the house. Some dogs and cats do not take well to these new visitors.
- Check local laws and ordinances related to keeping ferrets as pets. Some areas strictly forbid their ownership. Other areas require permits. Finally, in some areas you can do whatever you please as far as owning a ferret. Check this out before you buy.
None of this is intended to scare anyone away from owning a ferret. This is simply information that must be taken into account for your good and the good of the ferret. Ferrets can be great pets but your should know that you are taking on a different animal than the dog or cat you may have had previously. All of these things should be considered a very basic introduction to ferret ownership and ferret care.
