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Taking Your Ferret Home

Sunday, February 28th, 2010    Subscribe To Our Feed

Ferret Cages

There are lots of things to think about when you first take a new ferret home. The first thing is that you need to do is to choose an area for your ferret’s cage. Don’t forget that the place you pick will be where your pet will spend a lot of its time. Ensure that the space is comfortable and safe. There are plenty of ferret cages to choose from so be sure to select on that gives your pet lots of room to run around. Be sure to get some soft bedding for the cage so your ferret’s home is comfortable and he is not in danger of hurting himself. Consider a cage with a plastic bottom as they are easier to clean. Metal-bottomed cages will rust and start to look shabby after several cleanings. However, if you do purchase plastic coated metal make sure that your ferret isn’t chewing the coating off. If they swallow pieces of plastic they can lodge in their intestines. The cage should have multiple levels and large doors. The large doors are so your ferret doesn’t get stuck while trying to get out.

Comfort From a Ferret Hammock

Ferrets sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day, so be sure to purchase some sleeping sacks and hammocks to make them more comfortable. You’ll want to ferret-proof the room as well, as you ferret needs to spend a couple of hours each day outside of their cage.

Choosing Ferret Toys

Toys help your ferret to be active and happy. However, be careful about the types of ferret toys you purchase as some could put your pet’s life at risk. Ferrets have extremely sharp teeth so choose well-built toys. Cat toys are often a good choice. Avoid any foam or plastic toys that are easily damaged. It’s best no to leave any toys in the cage if you’re not there to supervise. If your ferret eats a piece of a toy it can easily result in an obstruction that will need to be surgically removed.

Ferret Odor

Ferrets are part of the Mustelid family, which includes weasels, badgers, otters, etc., and so they have an odor. You should consider scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian to have your ferret neutered and de-scented. Usually both procedures can be done at the same visit. Always follow the veterinarian’s instructions on how to care for your pet after these procedures. Be sure to get your ferret the vaccinations they need and regular examinations as well. Most baby ferrets (kits) have only had their first set of shots when you buy them. Make sure you know what shots they received and when so you can inform your vet. When the first set of distemper shots are done your ferret will only need the shot once each year. Booster shots will be needed, too. Be sure to set up a schedule with the veterinarian.

Supplying the Right Ferret Diet

High quality food is needed to assure your ferret’s health. Check to be sure that the food you picked is not made from frozen meat. You should always find out what brand of food your ferret was being fed before you brought it home. If you’re changing the type or brand of food, do it slowly buy mixing small amounts of the new food with the old food and slowly increasing the amount of the new food while decreasing the old one.

Are Ferret Treats Safe

Ferrets don’t really require snacks but if you choose to give them treats choose healthy ones like cooked eggs and meat. Candies or sugary treats will only harm your ferret.
Preparing well in advance for the arrival of your newly adopted ferret will make sure that your new pet stays healthy and happy.

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