Ferret Care Tips

Have you recently adopted a ferret? These frisky, mischievous balls of fur are super cute, and really make great pets. However, caring for a ferret is very different from taking care of a dog or cat, so first-time owners face a bit of a learning curve. A Las Vegas, NV vet offers some key ferret care tips below.

One thing that is fairly unique about ferrets is the fact that they can get very fixated on a specific type of food, so much that they will sometimes refuse to eat anything else. Why is this a problem? Well, if your pet’s favorite food suddenly becomes unavailable, you may have trouble getting him to eat anything else. Offer your ferret a mix of suitable foods, so he or she gets used to variety. Your pet’s diet should be mostly meat and protein, so offer lots of boneless beef, pork, turkey, and chicken. Don’t give your ferret fish; fruits or veggies, especially peas, grapes, or onions; dairy; dog food; sugary foods; chocolate; caffeine; or anything that contains fiber. Ask your vet for more information.

Make sure that your pint-sized pet sees the vet regularly. Your ferret should be fixed, and will also need regular examinations and recommended vaccines. We recommend that ferrets come in at least once a year until they are about 4. After that, your tiny buddy will need to come in more often. In between visits, you’ll need to clip your pet’s nails and offer hairball remedies. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Your ferret will need a clean, comfy cage. These little guys are quite sleepy, so offer your pet lots of comfy beds and hammocks. You’ll need to add a litter box, food dishes, a water bottle, and, of course, plenty of toys.

Ferrets are notorious for having sticky fingers, or paws. Remove or secure potential hazards, such as toxic plants, plastic bags, medicines, chemicals, and anything small or sharp. Also, seal off any spaces your pet could get into. A word to the wise: keep personal belongings out of paws’ reach!

Like any other pet, ferrets thrive when they feel loved and safe. Spend lots of time with your little buddy!

Please contact us, your Las Vegas, NV vet clinic, with any questions or concerns about your ferret’s health or care. We’re here to help!