Things You Need to Know Before You Adopt a Ferret
If you are looking to adopt a ferret there are a few things you need to know about these lively and challenging creatures. Ferrets are not easy to care for. They are extremely active, need plenty of attention and exercise and have some rather disturbing (even destructive) behaviors.
A number of shelters will allow you to adopt a ferret, but not all shelters are created equal. Some shelters offer their ferrets free to a good home and are fairly relaxed about the selection process. Others have a pretty rigorous screening process for their ferrets including an application procedure and the chance that you may be turned down.
In general those who want to adopt a ferret should make sure that they know what this fuzzy critter will require from them. While owning a ferret is a great experience for you, the ferret needs to be happy too! Here are the basics:
Ferrets need to be exercised daily. They need some free play of a minimum of two hours a day, preferably more. Under no circumstances should your pet be left in a cage all day. If you work all day and can't be home to watch him or her, then it is not a good idea to adopt a ferret.
Ferrets are not like hamsters, gerbils or mice and need hands-on care and attention from their owners. If you do decide to adopt a ferret it should only be kept as a pet, and for no other reason. Teaching your pet tricks is fine, just don't sell him to the circus!
If you want to adopt a ferret you must provide a safe, warm area indoors. A cage is ideal. Your home should be properly 'ferret proofed' so that your ferret can't escape and get hurt or damage your electrical chords and furniture.
When you adopt a ferret you will need to feed your pet a healthy, balanced diet. Ferrets should not be fed dog food or any other kind of pet food that is not suitable for their digestive systems. They may be fed good quality cat food but a special Ferret Food
is even better.
You will need to take your ferret for his initial vaccinations and any boosters he or she needs. When you adopt a ferret ask the shelter which vaccinations it has already been given. If your ferret gets ill you will need to provide for his medical treatment and this may cost a substantial amount of money.
As you can see it's not all plain sailing keeping a ferret as a pet. Like all animals it will need your love, care and attention for the rest of its life. If you think you can handle all of the above, then by all means adopt a ferret, if not, get a budgie!
