Caring for your Pet Ferret

Expert Veterinary Care for Your Furry Noodle

Ferrets are curious, energetic, and social companions that require proper housing, nutrition, health care, and enrichment to thrive. At Main St. Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you provide the best care for your ferret with expert guidance on everyday husbandry and wellness.

Housing & Environment

Ferrets should be housed in a large, secure, well-ventilated enclosure that prevents escapes and supports climbing and play. These intelligent animals are escape artists and need space to explore safely.

Habitat Recommendations:

• Size:  A multi-level cage at least 24"L x 24"W x 36"H for one adult, with additional space or play areas if possible.

• Material: Preferably wire cages with solid flooring to reduce stress and prevent foot injuries.

• Placement: Keep away from direct sunlight and drafts; maintain room temperatures below 80°F and above extreme cold.

• Escape-Proofing: Make sure bars and openings are small enough to prevent egress.

Bedding & Enrichment:

• Provide clean, dust-free bedding (e.g., paper bedding, towels).

• Include hammocks, hideouts, tunnels, and toys to encourage natural behaviors like exploration, tunneling, and play.

• Offer supervised out-of-cage time in a ferret-proofed area.

Diet & Nutrition

Ferrets are obligate carnivores — they require a diet primarily composed of animal proteins and fats.

Feeding Essentials:

• High-quality ferret food formulated with high protein and low carbohydrates.

• Fresh, clean water available at all times via an untippable bowl or chew-resistant bottle.

Feeding Guidelines:

• Healthy adults are typically fed twice daily to prevent overeating due to boredom.

• Food for young ferrets (< 16 weeks) may be moistened to help with hydration and digestion.

Foods to Avoid:

Avoid fruits, vegetables, sugary treats, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol.

Grooming & Maintenance

Ferrets' grooming needs are minimal but important for health and comfort.

• Bathing: Only as needed (about once a month) using ferret-safe shampoo — overbathing can dry skin.

• Shedding and Fur Care: Brush regularly during seasonal shedding to reduce hairballs.

• Nail Care: Trim nails every 2-3 weeks or as needed.

• Ear Care: Clean outer ears gently with a ferret-safe cleaning solution if debris accumulates.

• Dental Care: Introduce daily tooth brushing early; use meat-flavored toothpaste and a small brush.

Health & Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for early detection and prevention of disease.

Wellness Essentials:

• Annual wellness visits with your veterinarian when young; consider semi-annual checkups for older ferrets.

• Vaccinations: Canine distemper and rabies vaccines are commonly recommended.

• Parasite Prevention: Year-round flea and heartworm prevention as advised by your vet.

• Health Monitoring: Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, or bowel habits; ferrets are prone to adrenal disease, insulinomas, and gastrointestinal blockages.

Handling & Socialization

Ferrets are social, interactive pets that thrive with attention and enrichment.

• Spend quality time each day playing and interacting with your ferret.

• Ferrets often do well in pairs or small groups when properly introduced.

• Always supervise ferrets during free-roam time to protect them from hazards like electrical cords or small spaces they can squeeze into.

If you have questions about your ferret’s care or are noticing any changes in behavior, appetite, or activity, contact us right away. Our veterinary team is experienced in exotic pet care and ready to help.