Ferrets are adorable, lively exotic pets. Caring for a ferret takes special knowledge and accomodation.

The average lifespan of a ferret is six years, with five to seven being considered normal. Male ferrets average 16 inches and weigh between 2 and 3 pounds. Females average 14 inches and 1-2 pounds.

The ferret you purchase at a pet store has most likely been spayed or nuetered and descented. Descenting is considered a normal practice in the pet ferret trade but is not necessary as the scent is not strong, is not sprayed and is only released when the animal feels severely threatened. Ferrets are naturally nocturnal but most adjust well to their owner's schedule. Ferrets have very poor eyesight but makes up for that with an extra keen sense of smell and hearing.

Ferrets are known for their smell, referred to as their "musk". This is natural in ferrets and is present in descented animals as well. Bathing your pet will not improve the scent, in fact, the scent will worsen with the frequent removing of natural oils during bath.

FOOD AND WATER
Ferrets are carnivores, they must eat meat and have a high protein diet in order to maintain their health. You can purchase commercial dry ferret food though many vets also recommend dry kitten food. Do not feed your ferret a vegetarian diet.

Ferrets have a very short intestinal tract and you will see undigested food in it's feces, this is normal. To make up for their lack of digestion it is important that you feed your animal a high-quality food.

SHELTER
Ferrets need a lot of space to roam but it's not always safe to allow them free roam of your house. It's ok to allow your pet to roam the house while you are home, when you leave the house your animal should be secured in a large cage. Ferret cages are available at pet stores, should have hammocks or lage next boxes for sleeping and should contain many safe toys and bedding (blankets work well.)

Ferrets can be liter trained with success if you are patient and consistent. Place a small, uncovered liter box full of cat liter at the bottom of your animal's cage, consult your vetrinarian or a breeder for more information on liter training.

Ferrets make wonderful pets if you have the time to devote to them. They need frequent human contact to remain friendly and they require a lot of supervised play and exploration time.