Friendly Ferrets
Advice from Animal Expert Dr. Grey Stafford
 Karen and I had a ferret in college and I can tell you firsthand, ferrets are fun. In the right situation, a domesticated ferret can be a great family pet. They are clever, trainable and full of energy, except when they’re not. Ferrets love their naps!
However, despite their small wiry size, they can be formidable hunters just like their wild cousins. Plus, their canines are sharp. So, from day one, you’ll want to reinforce your ferret for displaying lots of calm, relaxed behaviors no matter what else may be happening around them. Sounds simple, and we’ve discussed this sort of “densensitization” training in past columns, but ferrets are unlike any puppy or kitten you will ever meet. Their speed and higher metabolism translates into a lot of hyper behaviors as the norm. Reacting to them when they are calm isn’t as easy or frequent as it sounds. So, seize every opportunity you can.
Like cats, ferrets can easily learn to use a litter box. Be sure to keep it clean, though. Ferrets seem to “prefer a fresh bowl” and will happily find a new potty location if the usual one is full. Like dogs, ferrets can be taught to take short walks on a leash. And, if they get tired, you can always place them inside your jacket for the return trip home!
Being somewhat mischievous and cryptic animals, ferrets like to hide and sleep in cozy, dark places. Coming in from dinner while on vacation, we found ours curled up asleep in the center of our neatly made hotel room bed. She wasn’t just lying in bed; she was completely under the covers! The good news is it is easy to crate train a ferret. The bad news is they have a tendency to collect household items such as socks or legos, which they stash in favorite locations throughout the house. The point is they need housing that provides a lot of mental and physical stimulation. But they can also be great (i.e. easy) travel companions, too. Just remember, if you do travel outside of Arizona, be certain to check with the local game and fish department about whether you can even bring a ferret into that state. Some states such as California prohibit ferrets.
As with any larger pet, you’ll want to be sure to take it to see the veterinarian for regular check ups and vaccines. I know your DVM will appreciate all the effort you make ahead of time desensitizing your ferret to being held and examined. Plus, your pet will find trips to the vet more pleasant, too. All in all, ferrets make fun, lively pets that can add great comic entertainment to a well prepared household.
Dr. Grey
Learn more about Dr. Grey Stafford
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