Once you have made the decision to be the pet owner of a ferret, you need to educate yourself about its care and needs. Just as you would gather information about how to feed, bathe, and care for a puppy or kitten, you need to be well informed about your pet ferret.
Ferrets tend to have a very high metabolism and, as such, need to be fed frequently. It is a good idea to have a bowl of dry cat food available at all times for your pet ferret. Fresh water is just as important to a ferret as it would be to a guinea pig.
Typically, a ferret will feed on dry cat food; however, some pet food stores have begun the practice of selling ferret food. Do not feed your ferret milk or dairy, as this will cause stomach upset. In addition, chocolate, grapes, peanuts, and carrots are not good for your ferret. These items can be a health hazards to your ferret.
As with any other pet, consult with a professional as to what to feed your new pet. Feeding any pet involves information and responsibility.
Most pet stores will sell a ferret cage to house your new pet ferret. These cages typically are sold in appropriate sizes for your ferret. A hanging water bottle and hanging food dispenser are available to buy separately.
You can also purchase a small piece of carpeting for your ferret to place on the bottom of the cage. A small litter box may also be placed inside the cage.
Wood and cedar shavings can be very dangerous to your ferret so do not use these materials.
Again, as with any other pet, it is imperative to speak to a professional regarding the necessary vaccinations. As many other family pets receive distemper vaccines, a ferret should also receive this important vaccine.
Typically, the first shot is given at about two months of age, thereafter following up every couple of weeks.
A yearly booster is almost always necessary but again, speak with your veterinarian about the proper vaccines for a family ferret.
Typically, a ferret can be litter trained. In the beginning, you can section off a small litter box or some newspaper and keep the ferret there upon awakening for it to do its business. When a ferret is trained to go in that particular corner or in the litter box, you can then remove the sectioned-off area and leave an open space set up for the ferret.
Ferrets, once trained, will usually be consistent in their potty training habits.