What you need to know before getting a ferret as a pet
By Katrina Warren|
Ferrets are fun and fascinating animals known for their playful and curious nature.
They can make great pets for families or individuals looking for fun and affectionate pets, but there are several things to consider before deciding to bring one into your home.
Ferrets are only welcome in some places. In Australia, keeping pet ferrets in Queensland and the Northern Territory is illegal, and you require a license in the Australian Capital Territory.
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They are fantastic escape artists and must have a secure enclosure.
Ferrets are small and compact but love to play and need space to explore. The larger the enclosure, the better, and they need lots of toys and activities to help keep them occupied.?Enclosures with multiple levels are best.
As ferrets are most active at dusk and dawn, be prepared to be woken if their cage is close to your bedroom. Ferrets can be trained to use kitty litter.
Ferrets are active and energetic animals that need to move and explore their environment. They are social and should be kept in pairs. Ferrets are very flexible and their bodies can fit through tiny openings.
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They also love to chew. You will need to ferret-proof your home and actively supervise when they are out of their enclosure to ensure they don't escape or chew something they shouldn't.
Ferrets have a distinct musky odour. Some call it an 'earthy' smell and many people find the smell unpleasant. Un-desexed males tend to have the most pungent smell and desexing them will reduce the smell. Regular washing also helps.
Females should be desexed. Mature female ferrets will often stay in heat until they are mated, which can cause life-threatening medical issues if not mated, so de-sexing is recommended.
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Ferrets are susceptible to heat stress. Their enclosure must be well-ventilated and sheltered, away from direct sunlight.
Ferrets can be trained to wear a harness and should always wear a harness and lead when outdoors to prevent a speedy escape จC they are quick to disappear!
Ferrets don't require a lot of grooming, but a monthly bath can help to reduce some of their body odour. Their claws usually require trimming about once a month
If you are considering a ferret as a pet, please do your research and educate yourself on their behaviour and special care requirements.
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