Exotic Pet Profile - Ferrets

Some people have preconceived ideas about ferrets, many of which simply are not true—or the whole truth. If you have ever thought about sharing your space with a ferret, take this quiz to find out if the time is right.

1. Ferrets are not very smart.
False. Quite the opposite is true—ferrets are highly intelligent animals. They learn quickly and tend not to make the same mistake more than a couple of times. Most ferrets can be trained to come when called, do tricks, and use a litterbox.

2. Ferrets are antisocial.
False. Ferrets are generally playful, affectionate pets that like to be held, although they do have moments when they act more independent. The personalities of young ferrets are usually described as a mixture of dog and cat. When they reach adulthood (at 1 year of age), most ferrets will try to gain your approval and spend a lot of time hanging around you. They may even “help out” with chores like sweeping the floor.

3. Ferrets get into everything.
True. Ferrets do get into everything—sometimes even if you think they can’t. For instance, things that are childproof most likely are not “ferret-proof.” Ferrets are curious and fearless. They can open drawers and cabinets, unscrew bottle tops, and unzip zippers. If a ferret’s head fits into or through something, his body will fit, too. Expect to make slight modifications to your home, such as removing plants to prevent digging and adding plastic or wooden runners under carpeted doorways to discourage tunneling.

4. Ferrets bite everyone and everything.
False. Ferrets do like to bite, but to them biting is playing. They have really tough skin and will bite and shake their playmates. If their only playmate is you, they will bite you at first. Luckily, since ferrets are such smart creatures, they will soon stop this behavior with firm and consistent training.

5. Ferrets are hostile toward children.
False. Ferrets are not hostile toward anyone, and they certainly do not go around attacking children. However, it probably is not a good idea to get a ferret if you have an infant or young child (under about 8 years of age). Even a well-taught, well-meaning child might inadvertently squeeze a ferret a little too hard and injure the animal’s delicate back. And, obviously, ferrets do not know good intentions from bad, so if they are being hurt they will probably bite.

6. Ferrets have a peculiar smell.
True. Ferrets do have a distinctive musky odor. Even spayed or neutered ferrets will retain that odor, although it will not be quite as strong. Ferrets do not need to be bathed regularly (bathing will actually make the odor stronger); however, changing their bedding frequently (at least weekly) will diminish it.

7. Ferrets sleep a lot.
True. While ferrets do sleep a lot—and quite soundly—they also love to run around. Ferrets are extremely active creatures and need to have a lot of time out of their cage. Contrary to another popular belief, ferrets are not nocturnal. They sleep intermittently throughout the day and night and will adapt to your schedule.

8. Ferrets need regular veterinary care.
True. Just like other pets, ferrets need to receive vaccinations, annual booster shots, and routine veterinary exams, and should be spayed or neutered. Your veterinarian can help you learn more about these interesting pets.