If you’ve ever met a ferret, you already know—they’re quirky, curious, and endlessly entertaining. But owning a ferret isn’t quite like caring for a cat or dog. These playful pets have unique needs, and understanding them is key to giving your ferret a happy, healthy life.
Whether you’re a seasoned ferret owner or just thinking about bringing one home, this guide covers many tips you need to know.
What Makes Ferrets So Unique?
Ferrets belong to the weasel family and have the energy to prove it. They love to burrow, bounce, and explore—sometimes into places they shouldn’t! Their playful personalities make them wonderful companions, but they also require consistent attention, safe spaces to play, and proper veterinary care from an exotic pet vet in Oakdale.
Here are a few fun facts that set ferrets apart:
- They sleep 14–18 hours a day, but when they’re awake, they’re full throttle.
- Ferrets are obligate carnivores, which means they need a meat-based diet to stay healthy.
- They can be trained to use a litter box and respond to their name.
Daily Ferret Care Basics
Ferrets may be small, but their care needs are anything but minimal. These lively, intelligent animals thrive with daily structure, a proper diet, engaging play, and a safe living space. When their physical and emotional needs are met, ferrets make incredibly fun and affectionate companions.
Diet: High-Protein, Meat-Based Nutrition is Important
As obligate carnivores, ferrets rely on a diet rich in animal protein and fat. They can’t digest grains, fiber, or sugar well, which makes ingredient quality especially important.
Feed your ferret:
- A high-protein ferret-specific kibble (meat or poultry should be the first ingredient)
- Occasional freeze-dried or cooked meats as treats
- Fresh water available at all times
Avoid:
- Dog food or adult cat food
- Sugary snacks, fruits, vegetables, dairy, or grain-based product.
Reading ingredient labels is important. Need help choosing the right food? Ask our team at Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic—we’re happy to help and offer safe options in our online pharmacy.
Exercise & Enrichment: A Daily Must
Ferrets have high energy and sharp minds. Without enough play and stimulation, they can get bored and even develop behavioral issues.
Your ferret needs:
- 3–4 hours of supervised free-roam time daily
- Ferret-proofed spaces filled with tunnels, hideouts, and toys
- Games like tug, chase, or treat puzzles for mental stimulation
Ferrets love interaction with people and other ferrets. In multi-ferret homes, you’ll often see them wrestling and playing together. Solo ferrets still do well with plenty of one-on-one attention from their humans.
Housing: Safe, Clean & Comfortable
Ferrets sleep a lot—up to 18 hours a day—so their habitat should be clean, cozy, and stimulating when they’re awake.
Cage setup tips:
- Use a large, multi-level cage with ramps and shelves
- Include soft hammocks, blankets, and hid
Image credit: Envato