The domestic ferret (Mustela putorius) makes a delightful pet. It varies in colour from white to nearly black, usually with a dark mask and tail.  It is bright, very playful and very curious, enjoying the attention of humans and the opportunity to explore every corner of the house, including every small nook and cranny! They are near sighted with acute hearing and sense of smell.  The male is a ‘hob’ – the female a ‘jill’ and the young is a ‘kit’. They are gregarious animals and are happier living with one or two others. They have no homing instinct, so it is not advisable to let them into the garden, as they may wander off to explore and get lost.  They rarely bite, provided that they are used to being handled. They may be fitted with a soft harness so that they may be taken for a walk in the garden.

Housing

Ferrets are usually kept in a cage, as they are likely to cause some damage if left to roam freely in the house. Cages may be on two or three levels – about 42”x 31” x 55” for a single animal and larger if two or three ferrets are kept together - providing a sleep area, a feed area and a litter box or pan.  Ferrets are very clean animals and will often learn to use a litter pan (a high edge on the pan near to the back of the cage is recommended). They like to snuggle up to sleep - so a small, clean blanket is advised. Very playful, they enjoy a few toys – such as a ball on a string or small cardboard boxes or tubes.  

Feeding

Ferrets are carnivores and should mainly be fed meat, as they do not digest carbohydrates or vegetable matter well. Ferret feeds are available in many pet stores or they may be fed quality cat food.  They have a high metabolic rate and should be offered food several times a day. Left over, cooked meat may be offered for variety. Water should be available at all times and is best provided in hanging bottles as they will play in water bowls.

Health

Ferrets are naturally clean animals and need only an occasional grooming. If they get dirty they may be given a bath. Nails should be trimmed and ears checked for parasites.

If they are used to a regular check of their teeth - it may be helpful if you ever need to give any medicine or pills. Avoid handling ferrets if you have a cold or flue as they may be affected.

Advice may be found from the British Ferret Club.  www.britishferretclub.org.uk

Or their Information Officer – Carol Fleming  0113 2633027