Ferret Fact Sheet Introduction to Ferrets Ferrets [Mustela Putorius furo] are part of the Mustelidae family which includes weasels, otters, badgers, pine marten and wolverines. Ferrets are carnivores. Adult females are known as Jills, weight can vary from 0.3kg to 1.1kg. Adult females start coming into season from around 6 months of age and should be speyed unless you intend breeding. Unspeyed females will come into heat, easily noticable from the swollen and slightly engorged vulva. Once in season they need to be brought out, either by introducing them to a whole [un-neutered] Hob or a ‘Hoblet’ [a vasectomised hob]. A ‘Jill Jab’ can also be administered by a vetinarian to bring a Jill out of season. Male ferrets are called Hobs and can weigh from 0.8kg to 2.7kg, castrated male ferrets rarely exceed 1.6kg. Hobs become sexually mature around 6 months of age and it is advisable to have them castrated around this age. This will make the Hob less agressive and considerably reduce the distinctive ‘musty’ odour associated with uncastrated males. Average lifespan for both sexes is 6 to 10 years. Baby Ferrets are called kits. Ferrets are highly social animals and are best kept in pairs or groups. Ferrets are unable to regulate their own body temperature and need a constant supply of clean fresh water, they must not be left in direct sunlight or unveltilated cages as this can lead to heatstroke which is usually fatal to them.
Feeding Ferrets are carnivorous and happily eat rabbit pigeon and chicken. Most people prefer to feed their ferrets on meat substitute, called kibble. When choosing a ferret kibble the primary ingredient need to be meat based as this provides the vital vitamin and minerals they require for healthy digestion and development. Ferret kibble should contain taurine and be composed of 15 to 20% fat and no less than 32 to 40% protein. Avoid any foods containing high sugar or caffeine content such as dried fruit, cereals, vegetables, seeds and nuts, chocolate or salty foods.
Housing and Bedding Ferrets can live either indoors or outdoors. A two stroy ferret cage is ideal as this provides space to sleep and play. If you are housing them outdoors a solid floor is essential as they can dig with surprising ease. Never place the run in direct sunlight, ensure there is adequate shade available to them. A standard one story rabbit hutch is not suitable for long term accomodation. Old jumpers, bedding or shredded paper make ideal bedding for ferrets.
Playtime Ferrets are very playful creatures, when excited they often dance sideways, twist and jump around with their mouth open making a dooking noise, this is affectionately referred to as the ‘weasel war dance’. If scared or threatened a ferret will back up, arch its back and make a loud hissing noise, they will also let off a pungent smell from small glands at the base of the tail. Ferrets need at least 30-90 minutes playtime a day.
Handling Ferrets should be handled firmly but gently and placed close to the body to feel secure, when picking up a ferret grast it gently behind its front legs and support its back end with your other hand. |