Your Most Frequently Asked Questions About Ferret Care – Answered!
This is a short yet comprehensive FAQ article that will provide you with key ferret care information that you as a ferret owner must know.
Q. Are ferrets rodents?
A. According to all the ferret care information, available it is fair to say that they are NOT rodents. In fact, they are considered a distant relative of the polecat.
Q. How long to they normally live for?
A. Generally speaking, ferrets have an average life of six to eight years, though it is not uncommon to find them living up to eleven or twelve years.
Q. What do they eat?
A. Since ferrets are hyper-carnivores, they primarily eat meat and meat byproducts. When devising a diet for your pet, ensure that it is high in protein and fat while low in fiber and carbohydrates. Always remember that a good diet is the key to successful ferret care.
Q. My ferret sleeps most of the time. Is this normal?
A. Yes, it is quite normal. They sleep an average of eighteen to twenty hours in a day. Thus paying attention to the bedding you choose will be an important part of the ferret care information you learn and read up on.
Q. Do I need to buy a hammock for my pet to sleep in?
A. Most ferret care information will tell you to buy a hammock. Usually, this is the right way to go since hammocks are the ideal bedding option for your ferret. However, depending on the type of cage you have, you might be more inclined towards buying a sleeping sack for your little critter. Regardless of the exact bedding you choose though, just know that the bedding needs to be comfortable and cozy. Moreover, it needs to be machine washable since you will need to clean it on a regular basis to avoid the spread of any virus or disease.
Q. What are the different colors of ferret?
A. There are two natural colors; sable and albino, though today numerous colors are found, thanks to selective breeding by humans.
Q. What kind of housing will I need to provide my ferret?
A. Although wooden cages and aquariums(without the water of course) are used by some to house their ferrets, it is highly recommended that you brush aside these options and instead look towards a wire mesh cage for its home.
Not only will this cage allow for easy cleaning, but it will also give your beloved fur ball the required ventilation. Additionally, give serious thought to putting plastic flooring in your cage as this will further help in the cleaning as well as prevent accidents whereby your pet gets its feet stuck in the wire mesh, it just makes it so much more comfortable to walk on – some cages now come with a bottom plastic tray you can pull out for easy cleaning. It would also be a good idea to create two levels in the cage allowing for the separation of the sleeping quarters and litter box.
Q. Can I give my ferret treats regularly?
A. It is highly advised that you refrain from giving your ferret treats on a regular basis since these treats generally contain high amounts of vitamins and fatty oils. Instead, it is recommended that if you have to give treats, you do so in accordance with your ferret’s training and positive reinforcement tactics.
Q. What kind of toys can I use?
A. Generally cat toys can be adapted as play toys for ferrets. Do not make the mistake of getting your ferret any plastic or foam toys as it will soon make mincemeat of them. Also make sure the toy you choose does not have parts that can be swallowed such as a button. Squeakers should be avoided at al costs.
CLOSING REMARKS: Make sure you read up as much as you can about your chosen pet. The more ferret care information you read, the more fun time with your little fur ball you will have. The good news is that ferret care information is available at just a click of a button, hence if you are serious about keeping one of these wonderfully inquisitive animals, it is imperative that you take the time to learn more about your furry friend.