FERRET 101

There's a lot of great information via books and the internet which cover ferret basics, history, health, behavior, etc. But, since this is a blog about ferrets, it behooves me to put in my own two cents worth.

At first glance, people may think that a ferret is a rodent, like a mouse or hamster. In truth, ferrets are not rodents at all, but carnivores (meat-eaters). They are in the mustelidae family, which they share with the wolverine, sea otter, skunk, weasel and polecat. The domesticated ferret's wild cousin, the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes), is one of the world's most endangered species (see pic). It is thought that ferrets were kept as pets in Egypt, even before cats. Pictures drawn on Egyptian tombs depict ferret-like critters being walked on leashes.

The word "ferret" comes from a Latin word, meaning "thief". Thus, they are appropriately named, because they will definitely steal your keys, your wallet, your socks, your spaghetti noodles....and your heart. The official scientific name is Mustela putorius furo, which, loosely translated means "stinky mouse-killing thief". Personally, I prefer to call them "fuzzbutt" or "silly weasel".

This brings me to the "stink factor". Ferrets have scent glands near the anus, which is true of all carnivores. If they are startled or feel threatened, they will release a strong, musky odor, which will dissipate fairly quickly. If a ferret is purchased from a pet store, they will have their scent glands removed. They still have a slight body odor from their skin oils, however, which, again, is no different than Mr. Kitty or Fido. Proper grooming (keeping the ears clean and not bathing them too much), regular washing of their bedding and keeping the litter boxes clean will keep any odor under control. A few of us ferret-lovers happen to like the way their ferrets smell !

Ferrets are actually very clean little critters. I observe mine taking the time to wash their feet and face after they eat. They will use the litter box, newspaper or puppy pads most of the time (but be prepared for a surprise every now and then). Personally, I prefer the use of puppy pads and newspaper, as opposed to litter boxes. I dislike the smell, inconvenience and mess the litter makes and it's a lot easier for me to just pick up the soiled paper and put a clean one down.

A normal healthy ferret will sleep an average of 18 - 20 hours per day, with bursts of activity in the morning and again in the evening. Two or more ferrets will sleep in a pile and they love to burrow in soft, warm, dark places (such as your laundry basket). It's very cute, but ferret owners must quickly learn to check the couch cushions and blanket heaps to avoid a serious ferret injury. Recliners are very dangerous and can crush a ferret.

Ferrets need a minimum of "out-of-cage" time of four hours per day. This means having a ferret-proofed home (think of a two-year-old that can climb and squeeze behind the refrigerator). Unless you have an entire room you can devote to your ferrets and allow them to run around, forget having House Beautiful. The decor will be more of the tubing, cardboard box, jingle ball motif. Put your antique tea pot your grandmother gave you in the china cabinet and not on the coffee table. If you don't want little ferret teeth marks in your new Nikes, put 'em in the closet. My fuzzbutts love candles, and will chew the wax. It's been a learning curve, but now I've learned to think like a ferret. The few candles I now have are out of reach.

The cage your ferret lives in (when not out) needs to be large enough for him to move around comfortably. It should have a hammock, sleep sack and soft blankets, a water bottle and crock, food bowl and litter area. Purchase a cage made specifically for ferrets. There are a variety of quality ferret cages available in a broad price range.

Ferrets make fun, loving and loyal pets. But they aren't for everybody. They need the attention and care just like a dog or cat. They can make you laugh or push your patience. The key to finding the best pet for you is knowledge. Do your research so that you and your pet will have a long and happy relationship.

REMEMBER!! PLEASE DO NOT SUPPORT INDIVIDUALS WHO CHARGE "REHOMING FEES" FOR THEIR UNWANTED PETS! SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL SHELTER OR RESCUE!