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Ferrets Ferret Questions?

BestGuineaPigs

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I don't have ferrets, and I'm probably not getting anything soon, but I'm curious on them. I have a weird habit of getting a lot of information on small animals. It started when I got my guinea pigs. All I did was research anything I could about guinea pigs. I already have researched chinchillas and now I'm on to ferrets! lol I have some questions though.

1. How big should a ferrets cage be?
2. Is it okay to have fleece in a ferrets cage, or would I use bedding?
3. How many ferrets would I have to get? 1 or 2?
4. Are ferrets more, less, or equal to how much guinea pigs are?
5. How many times would I have to take the ferrets to the vet?
6. If I did get a ferret, my nearest rescue is an hour away. How would I transport them back?
7. DOes it take a ferret time to get used to the environment, just like guinea pigs?
 
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aspecht

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I know several people who have had ferrets. Recently I about saved some from a hoarding situation but don't have the room for them right now. A ferrets cage should be about the same as a chinchilla I believe. I know that they do enjoy blankets, but they can be pretty smelly animals. I really don't know all the answers to your questions! But I wanted to read this because I've been considering ferrets!
 

BestGuineaPigs

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I know several people who have had ferrets. Recently I about saved some from a hoarding situation but don't have the room for them right now. A ferrets cage should be about the same as a chinchilla I believe. I know that they do enjoy blankets, but they can be pretty smelly animals. I really don't know all the answers to your questions! But I wanted to read this because I've been considering ferrets!
I really want ferrets too! Although, I live with my parents, so I would have to get them when I move out. :(
 

aspecht

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I really want ferrets too! Although, I live with my parents, so I would have to get them when I move out. :(

From what I've seen, they're probably less work than guinea pigs but I haven't had too much experience. I know they can be quite social and can be very good free roaming as they CAN be potty trained.
 

BestGuineaPigs

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From what I've heard, you have to be very careful owning them if you also have rodents. Their prey drive is very strong and they're good at getting into places they shouldn't be. Which is a shame, since if it weren't for that I would probably want a couple! They're so cute.
Oh... That's a shame. :sad:
 

PrincessPiggy

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I love ferrets and I've always wanted some, but that's probably not going to be for a while if ever. One major thing that you need to know is that they have a VERY pungent smell-- they're in the family Mustelidae, which is the same family as skunks, and all members of that family have scent glands that emit a strong odor. Even if you don't find it all that bad (I personally don't), guests might (i.e. my mom, who thinks she might be allergic to them). That's the major thing that's holding me back from really considering ferrets.
They're also pretty high-maintenance from what I can tell. They need a lot of floor time, but they are very, very curious and will try to get into anything, so the room has to be very ferret-proof.

As for the questions:
1. Pretty big, though their cage can go vertical while pigs' cages can't. Look up Ferret Nation cages for an idea of size-- they're considered some of the best.
2. Fleece is fine, and you can litter train them with a good amount of success.
3. 2 or 3 is good-- they're social like pigs. :)
4. "More or less" what? Work or money? My guess is that they're probably more on both counts than pigs.
5. This I'm not sure about. I can't remember if they need annual shots or not (it may depend on the law in your state--I'm not sure). At least a once a year visit would be good, but check with someone who has ferrets first.
6. A small dog kennel/crate, maybe?
7. Probably.

Just keep in mind that all this is based on reading/research I've done out of curiosity. Talking to someone who's actually owned ferrets would definitely be more accurate as to the actual work, care, and vet stuff involved. :) I felt like I could answer most of your questions with some accuracy, though of course someone who knows more is definitely welcome to correct me. :)
 

Agrimony

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Ferrets are very cute, but super smelly! I would not own them on that basis. They are very intelligent though, and from what I have heard quite mischievous!
 

BestGuineaPigs

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Thank you! Also, I forgot to ask. Is it okay to walk ferrets on leashes? Or is that bad for their back like guinea pigs? And would I use a water bottle or water bowl? :)
 

BestGuineaPigs

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And I know ceramic bowls are best for food, but should I get a bowls and just put it in the cage, or get a cage that comes with a bowe that attaches to the cage?
 

lunarminx

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My sister has had them off and on forever. Hers were kept in a cage the like the ferret nation(3 levels), it was kept open and they used litter pans and got along with her cats really well. You do have to ferret proof. They can flatten and get in areas you wouldn't think they could. You can have them in their own room, kept in the cage with floor time. They really do need lots of floor/play time. Some are mean and some are very friendly, if you have younger kids in the house be careful. When my oldest son was a baby/toddler, one of the ferrets use to hang off his diaper while he ran around, it was very gentle. I almost got one before the pigs.
 

BestGuineaPigs

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My sister has had them off and on forever. Hers were kept in a cage the like the ferret nation(3 levels), it was kept open and they used litter pans and got along with her cats really well. You do have to ferret proof. They can flatten and get in areas you wouldn't think they could. You can have them in their own room, kept in the cage with floor time. They really do need lots of floor/play time. Some are mean and some are very friendly, if you have younger kids in the house be careful. When my oldest son was a baby/toddler, one of the ferrets use to hang off his diaper while he ran around, it was very gentle. I almost got one before the pigs.
Well, my mom has an in house daycare, so that's another reason why my dad would say no.
 

mmas4

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1. I wouldn't go smaller than a single unit ferret nation.
2. You will want to litter train. You actually put fleece, blankets, old clothes etc in the rest of the cage to keep them from going outside the litter pan. Ferrets will generally not use fabric as a bathroom.
3. 2 (or more) is best. Just like piggies they are social.
4. They can be more work/money/time or less than piggies. It depends on health of the ferrets, setup etc. For example people with ferret rooms wont have to spend time setting up floor time and people with ferrets with health problems will spend more money on vet bills.
5. They should have yearly checkups and obviously if they are sick or injured.
6. Small dog/cat carrier. A plastic one. They can destroy fabric carrier.
7. It depends on the ferret. My first 2 ferrets settled in right away. The third ferret took a little more time probably because she got into little fights with one of the current ferrets (they get along great now).
Ferrets can walk on leashes. Their backs are much less fragile then a piggies. A harness wont do any damage.
I prefer to use a water bowl. Much easier for them to drink out of. I like bowls that attach to the cage. No spills that way. You can also put it up higher if they choose to snorkel in it.
 

Rabbit_Lover

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I can help you out :)

1. Ferret nations are by far the best cages out. I wouldn't recommend anything other then that. I'm sure you've seen those purple and green super pet cages. Those a trash, and nothing more than that. I had one that was used for a holding cage while I cleaned out the ferret nation, the little clips that hold the pans in place cracked, so I could no longer use it. If you get a plastic cage, you will most likely need to replace it, as plastic is cheap, and ferrets will chew. ferret nations on the other hand will most likely never have to be replaced in a ferrets life (with the exception if you don't keep the plastic pans keep clean and they stain you'll need to order more)

2. Yes, fleece is the best thing to use. Some ferrets are allergic to the bedding, especially the wood based bedding. I do have a tutorial some here on here of how to make fleece covers to protect the plastic sheets.

3. 2+. I highly suggest you get three though. It takes a while for bonding, it is a slow process, and if one ferret where to die, the one would be sad and lonely, so it is best to have 3.

4. Defiantly more. The ferret nation is around $300 new, you can usually find a used one for $50+ on craigslist. The food isn't that expensive but they do need yearly vaccinations like dogs. You will need a plastic bin filled with toys to rotate out or the ferrets will get board and possible start to nip.

5. No less then once a year to get there shots.

6. In a regular plastic pet taxi. Some people get large pet store cages and use that. I never have, I don't want to support companies by purchasing them with those tiny cages.

7. Yes and no. All animals are different. When I rescued my two I was holding them both the day I brought them home.



You didn't ask this, but I thought I'd add this.

I absolutely am in love with Doctors Fosters & Smith. If you do get ferrets, that and ferret.com and the best online stores are the BEST place to get your things. If you'd like I can make a list of everything I have, and give you links so you can get and idea of about how much you'll be spending. Hope this helps.
 

BestGuineaPigs

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I can help you out :)

1. Ferret nations are by far the best cages out. I wouldn't recommend anything other then that. I'm sure you've seen those purple and green super pet cages. Those a trash, and nothing more than that. I had one that was used for a holding cage while I cleaned out the ferret nation, the little clips that hold the pans in place cracked, so I could no longer use it. If you get a plastic cage, you will most likely need to replace it, as plastic is cheap, and ferrets will chew. ferret nations on the other hand will most likely never have to be replaced in a ferrets life (with the exception if you don't keep the plastic pans keep clean and they stain you'll need to order more)

2. Yes, fleece is the best thing to use. Some ferrets are allergic to the bedding, especially the wood based bedding. I do have a tutorial some here on here of how to make fleece covers to protect the plastic sheets.

3. 2+. I highly suggest you get three though. It takes a while for bonding, it is a slow process, and if one ferret where to die, the one would be sad and lonely, so it is best to have 3.

4. Defiantly more. The ferret nation is around $300 new, you can usually find a used one for $50+ on craigslist. The food isn't that expensive but they do need yearly vaccinations like dogs. You will need a plastic bin filled with toys to rotate out or the ferrets will get board and possible start to nip.

5. No less then once a year to get there shots.

6. In a regular plastic pet taxi. Some people get large pet store cages and use that. I never have, I don't want to support companies by purchasing them with those tiny cages.

7. Yes and no. All animals are different. When I rescued my two I was holding them both the day I brought them home.



You didn't ask this, but I thought I'd add this.

I absolutely am in love with Doctors Fosters & Smith. If you do get ferrets, that and ferret.com and the best online stores are the BEST place to get your things. If you'd like I can make a list of everything I have, and give you links so you can get and idea of about how much you'll be spending. Hope this helps.
Thank you so much! That really helps! The list would be good, but I already have a lot of information!!! lol
 

Rabbit_Lover

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Well I have nothing to do, so I'll do it :p



https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17345+17473&pcatid=17473 - Ferret Nation
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17345+17495&pcatid=17495 - Play pen
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17349+17391&pcatid=17391 - Harness and lead
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17355+17537&pcatid=17537 - Good Bye Odor (this is necessary it will kill tons of odor!)
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17343+17395&pcatid=17395 - Get at least two for water, and another for food.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17351+24935&pcatid=24935 - My ferrets love this food, I tried the Premium Diets by Marshall
and my ferrets didn't like it.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17792+19738&pcatid=19738 - You should always have a first aid kit
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17792+18130&pcatid=18130 - tunnel
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+25586&pcatid=25586 - A few months ago we had a flea attack, and they had them. This stuff works really good if you have fleas.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+25579&pcatid=25579 - Regular shampoo & conditioner, this stuff smells really good.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+19684&pcatid=19684 - Ear cleaner
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+17435&pcatid=17435 - These nail clippers are great. I love them, I use them for my Chihuahua, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, & Ferrets
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+17388&pcatid=17388 - Get this spray! It works wonders with the smell!
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17353+17500&pcatid=17500 - There coat will be amazingly soft with it.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17347+17545&pcatid=17545 - Cage cleaner
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17347+25489&pcatid=25489 - cute air fresheners that can be used for all animals.

https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17358+21314&pcatid=21314 -
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17358+22294&pcatid=22294



Other things I didn't post that they don't have exactly what I have.

Litter box
Brush
Lots of hammocks
Lots of toys


You should invest in getting either a
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18172 or a plastic bin of water with rubber duckies or those medium sized balls that are plastic that children play with.

I don't know why it's in the middle - . -

Anyway, not sure if you wanted to know, but I thought I'd post my schedule of just the ferrets.
Daily: Wake up, fed, water, and clean all three litter boxes. After school when I'm home they get out in there play pen for 1-4 hours depending on if there feeling energetic or sleepy. Takes 30 minuets
Weekly: Take the ferrets out, and put them in there play pen, and throw some toys in. Take out bowls, toys, hammocks, ect. Throw the hammocks & fleece covers in the washer. The bowls, and water proof toys, litter boxes, and the trays go out side and get sprayed down with soap and water. The litter boxes get 10% bleach and 90% water soaked for 10 minuets. Dump it out, then do half dawn and half water. Let it set, then wash out good. Keep them outside and get sun dried. Put everything back in, different hammocks and toys. Fresh water & food. Clean fleece liners, ect. Takes 1--2 hours.
Monthly: Do the weekly schedule, and take the whole ferret nation outside, with nothing in it. Spray it down, high pressure, with soap and water, then let sun dry. Takes 3 hours minimum.


 
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BestGuineaPigs

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Well I have nothing to do, so I'll do it :p



https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17345+17473&pcatid=17473 - Ferret Nation
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17345+17495&pcatid=17495 - Play pen
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17349+17391&pcatid=17391 - Harness and lead
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17355+17537&pcatid=17537 - Good Bye Odor (this is necessary it will kill tons of odor!)
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17343+17395&pcatid=17395 - Get at least two for water, and another for food.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17351+24935&pcatid=24935 - My ferrets love this food, I tried the Premium Diets by Marshall
and my ferrets didn't like it.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17792+19738&pcatid=19738 - You should always have a first aid kit
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17792+18130&pcatid=18130 - tunnel
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+25586&pcatid=25586 - A few months ago we had a flea attack, and they had them. This stuff works really good if you have fleas.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+25579&pcatid=25579 - Regular shampoo & conditioner, this stuff smells really good.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+19684&pcatid=19684 - Ear cleaner
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+17435&pcatid=17435 - These nail clippers are great. I love them, I use them for my Chihuahua, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, & Ferrets
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17352+17388&pcatid=17388 - Get this spray! It works wonders with the smell!
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17353+17500&pcatid=17500 - There coat will be amazingly soft with it.
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17347+17545&pcatid=17545 - Cage cleaner
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17347+25489&pcatid=25489 - cute air fresheners that can be used for all animals.

https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17358+21314&pcatid=21314 -
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=17342+17358+22294&pcatid=22294



Other things I didn't post that they don't have exactly what I have.

Litter box
Brush
Lots of hammocks
Lots of toys


You should invest in getting either a
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18172 or a plastic bin of water with rubber duckies or those medium sized balls that are plastic that children play with.

I don't know why it's in the middle - . -

Anyway, not sure if you wanted to know, but I thought I'd post my schedule of just the ferrets.
Daily: Wake up, fed, water, and clean all three litter boxes. After school when I'm home they get out in there play pen for 1-4 hours depending on if there feeling energetic or sleepy. Takes 30 minuets
Weekly: Take the ferrets out, and put them in there play pen, and throw some toys in. Take out bowls, toys, hammocks, ect. Throw the hammocks & fleece covers in the washer. The bowls, and water proof toys, litter boxes, and the trays go out side and get sprayed down with soap and water. The litter boxes get 10% bleach and 90% water soaked for 10 minuets. Dump it out, then do half dawn and half water. Let it set, then wash out good. Keep them outside and get sun dried. Put everything back in, different hammocks and toys. Fresh water & food. Clean fleece liners, ect. Takes 1--2 hours.
Monthly: Do the weekly schedule, and take the whole ferret nation outside, with nothing in it. Spray it down, high pressure, with soap and water, then let sun dry. Takes 3 hours minimum.


Thank you! And did you say you have guinea pigs, ferrets, and rabbits? You are so lucky! Do your ferrets have problems with your guinea pigs, or do you keep your ferrets in a separate room?
 

Rabbit_Lover

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I don't have pigs anymore. But I wouldn't suggest putting them in the same room.
 

edcaguy

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That's a great list I have 2 and wanting a third myself though I only had them for about 5 weeks now, I leave my cage door open I am getting my ramp to the ferret nation today. And they took over my closet floor space. At first I would scruff them but ferrets have a way with getting what they want lol.
 

Swiss cheese

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From what I've heard, you have to be very careful owning them if you also have rodents. Their prey drive is very strong and they're good at getting into places they shouldn't be. Which is a shame, since if it weren't for that I would probably want a couple! They're so cute.
True.

Also, their smell is very strong. You should have at least two and they need lots of room and attention. They should not be in their cage all day. Trouble is, when they roam the house, they knock everything over and might break some stuff. Here in Switzerland, people who want to own ferrets need a special license, because they are not so easy to care for. Fun animals, though.
 

Swiss cheese

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Oh, and the rule of thumb is: Wherever you could squeeze a hard boiled egg through, a ferret could squeeze itself through. So you'd need to really protect those piggies.
 
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