Why You Shouldnt Buy That Baby Ferret

You know why you shouldn't adopt that baby ferret that's been looking at you with those cute eyes? Well, you might be an irresponsible owner. Look at the local animal shelters and you'll know what I mean. Young ferrets are called kits until they reach maturity. They have special needs, and if you're thinking about adopting one, read on so you can get a better idea on what it's like in being a responsible owner for these amazing creatures.

Ferrets are born blind, hairless, and kind of ugly. After about two weeks, they begin to open their eyes, grow some hair and start getting their dashing looks. They stay close to their mothers eating and sleeping most of the day until the time they are 7 months old.

Your kit's new homecoming can be easy, if you prepared yourself and your home ahead of time. Don't invite your friends over to see your new pet just yet. It might be a little too overwhelming for him. Take your time and get to know him on your terms. Let him do a little exploring and feed him some food by hand. Slowly let him get used to your touch and voice. Take your time, and it will be worth it. You should have already had a cage ready with all of the necessities. Food, water, bedding, litter box, and toys. Your house should be fully ferret proofed. Meaning, that there are no holes for your ferret to get into. Do not underestimate their abilities to get into trouble! It's their personalities.

Ferrets need a good nutritious diet of fats and protein. Fats and protein? That's a nutritious diet?! Yes, for ferrets, it is. Ferrets have a small digestive tract that is made to absorb nutrients fast. And those nutrients come in the form of fats and proteins. A good ferret food or high quality cat food with a mix of 30% proteins and 20% fats should do. Feed your ferret a variety of foods. Ferrets are known to become picky eaters and this can be a nightmare in the future.

Unless you plan to breed them, which I'm highly not recommending, having your ferret spayed or neutered is a must. This can lower the chances of future health problems and dramatically decrease their musky odors. Usually this procedure is done by eight weeks of age. By 16 weeks, your ferret should have received his full vaccinations.

Socializing your ferret is fun. Ferrets are curious and playful, but they can play rough. A firm scruff grab should discipline them. Introducing your ferret to new animals can be a little tricky. Do it slowly, with your ferret still in its cage. Ferrets are natural hunters and rodents are their prey. So I would be extremely careful putting them together with rats, rabbits, mice etc. But I have seen it happen where they can all get along fine.

In the end, you need to give you and your ferret time to adjust. Be patient and it will all pay off. Ferrets are the ultimate pets and you will be hooked after your first one. I guarantee it.