Ferrets are active, curious, and playful animals that can make excellent pets. However, their care is significantly different from that of cats or dogs, and before getting a ferret, it’s important to understand their unique characteristics.

Types of Ferrets and What a Polecat Is

Domestic ferrets originate from the wild European polecat (Mustela putorius) and were domesticated over 2,000 years ago. Initially, they were used for hunting small game and rodents, but later, they became popular as household pets.

The most common types of ferrets:

  • A polecat-ferret, or simply ferret, is the domesticated form of the European polecat. Ferrets are less aggressive and more adapted to living with humans.
  • The European polecat is the wild relative of the ferret and is not suitable as a pet.

  • The black-footed ferret is a rare species native to North America and is on the brink of extinction.

Domestic ferrets come in various colors: albino (white with red eyes), sable (dark brown), silver, chocolate, and pastel.

How to Care for a Ferret in an Apartment

Ferrets are not the easiest pets, as they require a lot of attention and specific care. They are very active, love to explore their surroundings, and can easily get into dangerous situations.

Housing Conditions

Ferrets require a safe environment. They need free space for play, but at the same time, they should have a separate enclosure or cage for sleeping and resting.

  • Cage – should be spacious (at least 80×60×50 cm), multi-level, with a hammock or a hiding place.
  • Temperature – a comfortable range of 15–24°C, as ferrets do not tolerate heat well.
  • Safety – ferrets may chew on wires, squeeze into tight spaces, or swallow small objects. Before bringing them home, it’s crucial to remove all potential hazards.

Ferrets are social animals and should not be left alone for long periods. Ideally, it’s best to have two ferrets so they can interact with each other.

Nutrition

Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must be high in protein and fat.

  • Main food – specialized ferret food or high-quality kitten food (rich in protein).
  • Raw food – poultry, beef, organ meats (heart, liver), eggs.
  • Strictly prohibited – dairy products, fruits, vegetables, bread, and sweets. Ferrets cannot digest carbohydrates and may develop health issues from an improper diet.

Food should always be fresh, and a bowl of water must be available at all times, as ferrets dehydrate quickly.

Grooming and Hygiene Care

Ferrets are naturally clean animals that groom themselves frequently, but they still require additional care.

  • Nail trimming – necessary every 2–3 weeks, as sharp claws can injure both the ferret and its owner.
  • Ear cleaning – important to check their ears regularly for wax buildup or parasites.
  • Bathing – while ferrets have a natural musky odor, frequent bathing only intensifies it. Baths should be limited to once a month using gentle ferret shampoos.
  • Teeth cleaning – since carbohydrates are harmful to ferrets, plaque and tartar can build up. Providing special chew treats or brushing their teeth regularly is recommended.

Grooming ferrets at home can be challenging, so professional care at V.O.G DOG SALON ensures they stay healthy and well-groomed. Specialists can take care of nail trimming, ear cleaning, and fur maintenance, which is especially important for albino and long-haired ferrets.

Pros and Cons of Keeping a Ferret

Pros

  • Highly active and playful – great companions that will never let you get bored.
  • Small size – require less space than a dog.
  • Smart and curious – quickly bond with humans, learn simple tricks, and use a litter box.
  • Social animals – can get along well with other ferrets and even befriend cats and dogs.

Cons

  • Strong odor – even sterilized ferrets produce a musky scent that not everyone likes.
  • Require a lot of attention – need daily interaction and playtime.
  • Can chew on things – constant supervision is needed to prevent damage to furniture and avoid dangerous situations.
  • High-maintenance pets – require regular grooming, specialized diet, and veterinary care.
  • Short lifespan – live an average of 6–10 years, which can be difficult for an emotional owner.

Conclusion

Ferrets are wonderful, intelligent, and playful pets, but their care requires preparation. They need plenty of attention, proper nutrition, activity, and grooming. For those willing to dedicate time to them, a ferret can be a loyal companion, but for those looking for a low-maintenance pet, other animals may be a better choice.

Before getting a ferret, it’s important to weigh all the pros and cons, prepare your home, learn about their needs, and provide proper care. If you are ready for such a commitment, a ferret can become one of the most unique and devoted pets.