With the average family backyard getting smaller, it’s no surprise that pocket pets are becoming more popular. Pet ferrets are a pet on the rise since they are curious, active and playful animals that can become a wonderful addition to your family. Before making the leap and choosing a ferret as a pet, there are a few important things to consider.
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Ferrets can be trained and become quite a placid friendly pet but they may not be the best choice around quite young children. Older children can be taught how to hold the ferret properly and to be a bit more gentle and therefore reduce the risk of a ferret bite.
It’s not just the kids to watch around a ferret but also other pets. So if you already have some pets they may need to be kept separate or introduced very slowly and always under supervision. It is advisable to house ferrets in a special cage with food, water, and bedding.
They still need to be active and have at least two to four hours of running around and play per day. This means you have to be able to ferret-proof your home or have a specific area where they can run around and play.
It is also essential to have your ferret desexed. This needs to be done once they are mature, which is after 6-12 months of age. A female ferret- known as a Jill, is an induced ovulator. When she comes on heat she will remain on heat until she is mated. If she is not mated the heat cycle can go on and on and this causes her bone marrow to be suppressed which in turn causes aplastic anaemia, toxicity and often death.
Choosing the pet that is right for your family is never easy, therefore it is always advisable to consult with your veterinarian before making a decision.
Dr Selma Fuijkschot, Petfocus Vetcare
