The Cape Cod Pet Network

Common name: Ferret

Genus: Mustela

Origin: It is believed by many breeders that the ancient Egyptians first domesticated ferrets, but the actual origin is unknown.

Size: 1-3 pounds

Life Span: 7-10 years

Temperament: Playful, active, mischievous

Diet: Ferrets are meat eaters and need a high protein diet consisting of meat or animal by products. A balanced diet of dried ferret food or a high quality cat food is fine. Avoid dairy, caffeine, and chocolate.

Housing: Minimum of 36 x 18 x 36 in with two levels inside of it.

Bedding: Aspen shavings or Carefresh^®

Water: A water bottle should be available at all times and should be changed daily.

Temperature/Humidity: High temperatures, above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, can be fatal for ferrets. Try to keep the temperature in their environment stable between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lighting: Ferrets, like most creatures on this planet, require natural sunlight to be healthy and happy. So be sure to allow them to receive some indirect sunlight during the day.

Companionship: Ferrets are social creatures, the more the merrier!

Sexing: Males are known as hobs with females known as jills.

Sexing ferrets is very easy as they have very distinctive genitalia, the females are always smaller and the head of the male is broader than the female.

The male can attain a length of up to 24 inches with female much shorter as little as 14 inches. Nearly half the length of the animal comprises of tail.

Pros: Very cute and fun loving. They sleep up to eighteen hours a day, so they are fine to be left alone during work or school hours.

Cons: They tend to have a musky odor and do love to steel small items that are left around the house. They also love small areas, so it's best to ferret proof your house before letting them roam free.

Note: Ferrets are susceptible to canine distemper and should be vaccinated. They are susceptible to heartworm infection and a heartworm preventative such as Heartguard should be used. They are also susceptible to the common cold. If your ferret should get a cold, rest and plenty of water is advised.