Since the 1980s, ferrets have become a popular family pet choice in the United States. A 1997 survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association found just under a million pet ferrets in residence in the country.
The domesticated European ferret came from wild polecats and spread across the continent by Roman soldiers. Early explorers brought the creatures to the New World — legend has it that Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain sent ferrets across the Atlantic with Christopher Columbus! Historians see evidence of ferret-like animals in ancient Greek and Egyptian writings.
Modern domestic ferrets weigh anywhere from one and a half to three pounds (on average) when fully grown, and can vary in length. They come in a wide range of colors, from pure white to dark brown, silver, and cinnamon. Markings may appear on the feet, the head, the legs, and tail. Domestic ferrets may live as long as seventeen years with proper care and nutrition.
DID YOU KNOW: Male ferrets are called hobs; female ferrets are called jills.
Your ferret can live a long and healthy life eating commercial ferret diets or even premium kitten foods. Make sure that whatever food you pick lists meat or poultry at the top of the list; too much plant protein can lead to urinary problems in ferrets. Ferrets don’t generally overeat, so you can leave dry food out at all times without worrying about obesity.
Ferrets are inquisitive and have a gift for getting into EVERYTHING. You need to keep your ferret confined to a cage if you cannot supervise them. Make sure the cage is at least twenty-four inches long and wide, and eighteen inches deep so your ferret has plenty of room to climb and play. Wire walls are best for proper ventilation; the floor can be wire or solid.
You should think about spaying or neutering your pet ferrets. Spaying and neutering usually leads to a longer life span, and prevents certain health problems. You may also want to consider removing the scent glands — ferrets, like skunks, badgers, and weasels, can secrete a particular odor when frightened or excited. This can be done at the same time as the spay or neuter surgery.