Ferrets are almost completely carnivores, even more so than a dog or cat. They have to have as little as possible when it comes to plants and “filler” in food. Ideally a raw meat diet would be best but it can be quite costly. Premium cat foods are usually the closest thing, not ferret food. Over exposure to indigestible food can lead to a type of cancer called Insulinoma so it is crucial that ferrets are being fed the right way.
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Ferrets will need their nails clipped regularly to avoid them getting caught on bedding and other things such as toys. They will fuss when doing this, most owners suggest distracting them with FerreTone on their stomach so that they become preoccupied with licking it off. This won’t work on all ferrets and you may need to find your own solution. |
Lone ferrets and some ferret groups will need their ears cleaned from time to time. Ear cleaning solutions and gentle uses of cotton swabs will take care of this. Ferrets in strong groups will usually clean each others ears, but should still have solution used on them from time to time.
Ferrets should have their teeth brushed routinely much like cats and dogs. Most feline dental care tools will work for ferrets. Ferrets do not dig either process. |
Ferrets should only be bathed around once a month, mainly when they’ve rolled in something unsavory or if they have fleas. They can be washed in the tub or sink like any other pet, however make sure to check the shampoo you’re using for them first as they can get rashes or even sick with the wrong shampoo. Excessive bathing can make their skin dry out or even increase their smell!
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Fleas are a large risk to ferrets. Ferret can become anemic extremely quickly from enough fleas, and if the infestation gets bad enough, it can even kill a ferret. Ferrets can use kitten doses of cat flea treatment but CANNOT use cat flea shampoo. They are very sensitive to the chemicals so if regular treatment does not work consult someone before taking other measures.
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As mentioned before, ferrets with insufficient diets can end up with a type of cancer called Insulinoma. Ferrets usually end up with Insulinoma because their pancreas is working too hard to break down food that ferrets aren’t meant to have. Simply feeding your ferret the right way is the best prevention you can do! |
Ferrets can live for anywhere from 3 to 9 years with the average in the 7 year range. Good care and proper food can enable ferrets to live as long as 10 years! They are not short term pets and that should be considered when adopting, most ferrets when adopted are under a year but rescues are often older.
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