If you love pets that are calm and cute, then ferrets will be the right choice. Because by their appearance, many people tend to mistake them for rodents, but in reality they are more like a cross between a cat and a dog.
In earlier times, ferrets were used to hunt or remove rabbits from their burrows. But today they are mainly kept as pets. If you are thinking of buying a ferret, you should buy one from reputable shelters, breeders, or the Humane Society.
Before you bring your ferret home, make sure your ferret has had the necessary vaccinations. It’s also a good idea to consult a local vet for information on common ferret diseases and their cure. Ferrets live approximately 7 to 10 years. A ferret costs around $75 to $120, depending on its age and where you buy it.
Contrary to common belief, ferrets can be effectively trained, although it may not be as easy as training dogs or cats. Training ferrets to learn house rules will be a gradual process. The best way to reward a ferret for positive behavior is by giving it food. For behaviors that are not acceptable, not paying attention to the ferret or locking it in the cage will do wonders. Because ferrets move around a lot, they tend to clutter up rooms. Chewing is also a major problem associated with ferrets. However, they can be trained to use the litter and not to bite.
Good ferret care is important to raising a healthy and happy ferret. Frequent interaction with their owners helps ferrets get used to their new homes. It’s also a good idea to spend a lot of time with your new pet ferret, especially during the first few days of housebreaking. Ferrets that have been used to playing with people since they were babies tend to be more friendly and playful. Although ferrets sleep 15-16 hours a day, they are very active the rest of the time and love to play with toys and romp.
Ferrets are naturally carnivorous and require a diet high in animal protein and low in fiber. Ferrets were usually given dry cat or dog food before, but today there are specially packaged foods for ferrets available at pet stores. Totally Ferret, Ferrotone, and Zupreem are the most common ferret food brands among ferret owners.
A variety of ferret accessories are now also available on the market, including toys, cages, and other innovative items. Large cages must be purchased complete with floors, ladders, and tunnels. If you have enough space in your backyard, you can also make a natural abode for your pet, including hammocks, hanging bunk beds, comfortable beds, and custom litter boxes.