The world of companion animals is diversifying more and more often, because when it comes to taking in an animal in our home with which to create an emotional bond there are numerous animals that can behave as excellent pets.
The ferret is a carnivorous mammal that has a hunting instinct, since this is its nature. However, contrary to what one might think, it was domesticated approximately 2,500 years ago for the purpose of hunting rabbits.
In this article on our site we talk about the ferret as a pet and we try to clear up any doubts you may have about it.
The nature of the ferret in the domestic environment
The ferret is an animal that gives off great energy and vitality, it is also an excellent companion animal, as it has a very playful natureand loves to share moments of leisure with his human family. Obviously, like many other animals, it requires daily presence and dedication.
The interaction of the ferret with its owners will provide great moments, as these animals are as sociable as they are intelligent and their behavior is complex. The ferret cannot be compared to an animal that requires minimal care, rather taking in a ferret is similar to sharing a home with a dog or a cat.
The ferret is able to learn its name and respond to the call of its owner, in the same way it can adapt to walk on a leash, to stay still on our shoulders and even has the ability to open doors.
If you are looking for a sociable, fun and playful pet, the ferret may be the most suitable companion animal for you.
What does a house ferret need?
If we are willing to take in a ferret as a pet we must bear in mind that this animal has basic needs and that it is our responsibility provide you with an environment in which you can experience a complete state of well-being.
Before adopting a ferret, we recommend you take into account the following considerations:
- The ferret must have a passport with a chip and maintain the established vaccination program in order.
- Many people decide to keep the ferret free at home, although it is an animal that can be kept living in a cage of appropriate dimensions. Despite this, it is essential that the ferret can leave the cage for several hours a day.
- It is important that the ferret follows a balanced diet, so it is generally recommended to provide balanced food specific for this type of animal.
- The ferret is an innate hunter, we must take extreme precautions if birds or small rodents also inhabit our home.
- This pet requires regular baths, they can be done every 2 weeks or even every 2 months, this will depend on the activity of each specific animal. In this case, specific cleaning products must be used.
- It is recommended that ferrets used as pets be neutered.
- They require special attention during the summer, as they are very susceptible to heat stroke.
If you are willing to comply with these basic premises that any ferret owner must commit to, then it's time to talk of veterinary care, which will also be essential for your ferret.
Veterinary care for domestic ferrets
As we mentioned before, it is essential that the ferret undergoes a vaccination program that will start after 2 months of life and that will include vaccines against rabies and distemper, the administration of which must be repeated annually.
The ferret should also periodically undergo preventive measures against the most common diseases in it, such as those used to repel mosquitoes that could transmit heartworm disease.
Obviously in the event of signs of illness we should go to a veterinary center as soon as possible, suspect a possible pathology if you observe any of the following signs in your ferret:
- Loss of hair
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory distress
- Change in stool evacuation
In the same way it is very important to contact a veterinarian specialized in ferrets, as this way we can provide the best he alth care to our pet.
Do you want to know more about the ferret?
If you are considering taking in a ferret as a pet, we recommend that you consult the following articles, as they contain information that will be of great interest and use to you:
- Types of ferrets
- Insulinoma in Ferrets - Symptoms and Treatment
- Tips for ferret odor
- The shedding or change of hair of ferrets
