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Friday, September 17, 2010

How will my ferret respond to his new environment?

How do ferrets respond to their environment? This is a typical question ferret owners are frequently confronted with especially when they are getting used to caring for their furry friend. There is no easy answer as to how ferrets respond to their environment, but there are several familiar scenarios that can help you get an idea of what you can expect from their furry mammals.

New Surroundings; Ferrets love new surroundings. If there is anything you can provide them with that will really make them happy and do their classic war dance of excitement, it would have to be new playgrounds for them to conquer. Since ferrets are quite adventurous, the only danger would be the fact that they may get too adventurous and get lost in the new surroundings.

So if you are taking your dear furry pal to the park or someplace that is new and exciting for them, make sure that you keep your eyes open to where they might be crawling next. Ferrets are quite fast creatures so you might even use this as an opportunity to jog with your pet.

Familiar Surroundings; The thing with the familiar surroundings which help ferrets is that they get to do their training better. You can't expect to train them well with good manners if you are not able to furnish some semblance of familiarity. The ferrets might not know it, but once domesticated, they will really need a place they can call home. They tend to relax in familiar surroundings, but then they can get bored so there is always a need to shake things up with a new toy or rearrangement of some of the things your ferrets play with.

Noisy Surroundings; Ferrets like enclosed spaces and are not as well-adjusted to noisy surroundings. In fact, this might alarm them or signal that they are being attacked. Some normal conversational noise may be tolerable, but anything in excess to that may be considered detrimental to your ferret's health.

Cluttered Surroundings; Clutter is the ferret's best friend. They love taking things and treat new objects as toys, just as any innocent infant would in their crib. For the pet owner, this may be equivalent to Jumanji since the ferret can and will swallow anything in its midst. Its particular love for the unfamiliar may pose some danger to its digestive tract so make sure that you know the clutter they will be in before letting them loose.

Clean Surroundings; Clean surroundings are good only for sleeping, which is daytime for ferrets since they are nocturnal creatures. Their sleeping area must be free from parasites so that they can have the sweetest dreams when they sleep. Over time, clean may translate to boring so you may find your ferrets bringing in new stuff to shake things up in his clean crib.

Indoors; Indoors are fine for as long as your ferrets are in their resting stage. If the indoors is completely furnished with toys that will keep them amused, the ferrets will find no reason to roam. Though they are naturally wired to be wild and in the outdoors, ferrets may actually enjoy being the indoors if the place keeps them excited and motivated to explore.

Outdoors; Outdoors, ferrets are happiest. But you might risk losing them if the area is too wide and filled with trees.

How ferrets respond to their environment greatly depends on how they are designed. If you can give them various environments to play in, it will make them very happy. Like humans, always staying at home may make them dull and it will really pay to render them some constant dose of excitement.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

How in the world do you raise a baby ferret?

Ferrets can be purchased from a breeder or adopted from a shelter even when they are young. Baby ferrets are better known as kits and if you choose to get a male, it is called a hob while a female is called a Jill.

When you acquire them, they have already been weaned and they now need adult nourishment. Since their teeth are not yet sharp enough to chew anything, it is best to soak the food in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes before this is given. You must never give them cat food because studies have shown that this causes health problems.

Kits need more fat and protein than kittens. This is because they have a short gastrointestinal tract and a rapid intestinal transit time which means it takes some time for the food to pass through the stomach and into the intestines. When you are looking for the right food product to buy, look at the label and see to it that this contains 35% protein and 20% of fat.

The baby ferrets need a balance of meat and poultry products as this will decrease the risk later of urinary tract obstructions later on in life. Aside from that, they must also be given water constantly either in a dish or bottle.

As the baby ferrets grow older, you can give them occasional snacks such as bananas, crackers and raisins but only in small amounts.

Aside from food, baby ferrets should be housed in cage. This should be big enough to let them move around and be easy for you to clean. There should also be sufficient bar spacing so they are not able to escape. It must also have a large door so the kit will not have a hard time getting in or out.

The bottom of the cage should have a plastic bottom so you can easily clean it. This will allow you to change the bedding or simply wash it. If buying one is expensive, you can make one by sewing a few scraps together and putting it inside.

When the ferrets are still young, you should already begin toilet training them. This will enable them to put their waste in a litter box instead on your carpet. The best way to do this is by putting a small amount of waste in the box and when they do this correctly, you give them a snack as a reward. You should be careful not to punish or hurt them when they are still learning because these creatures do bite back.

Eventually they will get a hang of it and to protect your home and your pet, it is best to ferret proof your home to prevent any untoward incidents.

One of the things that a baby ferret needs is a toy to play with. There are plenty of these in the market. Just make sure that they can withstand the ferret's sharp teeth. In fact, some baby toys and rattlers are fun for them to play with so you should supervise how they use it because they will eventually eat their way through it.

Baby ferrets need constant love and attention. Don't forget to also bring them to the vet for vaccinations and anti rabies shots so they will be able to stay with you for a long period of time.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

How do I learn more about ferrets?

Want to know all about ferrets but don't know where to begin? There are millions of other ferret aficionados who are stumped with the volumes of information available at their disposal about this charming furry creatures. Whether you are trying to get a pet ferret, living with someone who is crazy about ferrets or simply interested on the nuances of these musk-producing mammals, there are a few basic things that you can consider first as you get started with your ferret passions.


Biological Structure; Ferrets are like skunk's cousins since they are also able to produce musk. Some countries allow that the glands responsible for their musk production be cut so that they will not stink as much, but countries like UK and Australia find that this is not really necessary.

They are furry creatures with natural oils that make them shiny and smooth. Frequent bathing may remove some of these oils, but they are not really the type who resists regular showers. They also have the tendency to get long nails so a consistent nail-cutting session is in order for ferret owner wannabes.
Color, Type and Age; There are many different colors available for aspiring pet owners. Breeds are quite easy especially when the ferrets are mated with pole cats like in the old times. The younger the ferret is, the more delicate they are and difficult to maintain. But then you get the privilege to train them if you are able to acquire ownership while they are still kits.
As they grow older, they seek company of other ferrets. Older ferrets, like some adults, may actually display domination or superiority to the younger ferrets. They also have the tendency to develop cliques and may not be as open to accept new ferrets in their circle easily. .

Existing Regulations; Regulations vary from place to place, so when you are caring for your ferret, make sure that you are properly acquainted with the rules. Some countries don't allow ferrets to be domesticated as house pets, while other allow them but not so much as to take them in the airline cargo or cabin. When traveling with your pets, ensure that the airlines of your choice will be able to transport your ferret safely.

Behavior, Habits and Idiosyncrasies; By nature, ferrets are adventurous and curious creatures. You will have to set them free from their cages at dusk or dawn so that they can roam and satiate their curiosity and be happy under your care. They like dancing in a strange manner when excited and may even look like ready to attack but in reality, they are just expressing their glee.

Maintenance; Since ferrets are highly adventurous creatures, you will have to have them checked frequently. They may have the tendency to swallow objects that can be poisonous or damaging to their digestive tracts. On top of that, they may be prey to some other animals like snakes and hawks.

Some Facts on Their Rich Heritage; Ferrets haven't been domesticated pets since time immemorial. They were adopted as pets by the Americans only in the 1980's. Prior to this, ferrets have been used for hunting, as they are well capable of squeezing themselves in covered grounds and tiny spaces. Their talent and natural curiosity makes them really effective aids to detectives and hunters in the ancient times especially by the Romans.

Regulations came in and varied the functionalities of ferrets with human activities, which made them all the more versatile.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Are ferrets good pets?

Can ferrets be pets? The answer is yes just like owning a cat or a dog. All you have to do is provide them with the same kind of attention you would with any other animal you choose to have at home so they will be able to stay with you for a long time.

Ferrets are considered to be "unusual" in the pet industry because a lot of people would still prefer a bird, cat, dog, fish or hamster. In fact, some states in North America and a few countries do not allow you to own one.

The issue centers around the safety of the people who own them especially since these animals have very sharp teeth and although they are already domesticated, they will bite if they are provoked. This is why parents are discouraged from getting one if there are small children around but if they still choose to do so, they must never leave them unattended.

The worse part about getting bitten by a ferret is that it can carry and transmit rabies just like dogs. This is the reason that pet owners should make sure their ferrets have been vaccinated. Neutering is another thing that has to be done to control the number of domesticated ferrets.

Ferrets are also very curious creatures and if you don't like them messing up your home, you should make sure your house is ferret proof. You can do so by sealing small spaces which they may enter, reinforcing wires and securing air ducts.

Here are some interesting things that you should know if you decide to own a ferret.

First, they sleep for more than 18 hours everyday but when they are awake, this is the time that you need to feed and play with them.

Second, they do not like being caged so give them some room to move about in the house.

Third, ferrets take naps in the most unusual places. If you don't want to squish or hurt them, check under the cushion before you sit down because you could hurt them.

Fourth, male ferrets are heavier and grow much longer than the female.

Fifth, they can live for 6 to 8 years and if you are lucky, even up to 12 years with proper care.

Sixth, ferrets are blind but this handicap increases their other senses like their hearing and smelling enabling them to find food or go to you.

Seventh, ferrets can be trained to do just about anything just like a cat or dog. Reinforcement theory is the best approach here by rewarding them with food when they do something right.

Eighth, ferrets are not noisy since they don't bark. They also don't go outside as long as the doors, windows and vents are secured so there is no way that they will ruin your garden or that of the neighbor's.

Those who want to own a ferret can either buy one from a breeder or adopt one from the shelter. Before you pay for it and fill up the forms, make sure you know how to take care of it because that responsibility is now in your hands.

If you are not ready, put it off until you are committed to take care of a ferret as a pet.

Monday, September 13, 2010

The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly - Truth about owning a wild ferret

Is a wild ferret for you? You might have to quiz yourself well on that before you head off to the nearest forest and score yourself a brand new wild ferret to have and hold. There are many advantages and disadvantages of keeping wild ferrets, and here are some of the more major things you can expect once you decide to acquire wild ferrets.

Advantages:

More adventure, more fun. People who are just as interested in getting adventures out of their ferrets as much as the wild ferrets are, must be open to the idea of keeping them untamed. Wild ferrets are quite exciting to behold, especially for extremists who may find themselves bored with the typical domesticated pet. The good thing about wild pets is that they are extremely resilient and able to bounce back from attacks easily with their speedy and adventurous nature. Their curiosity may also lead to bring you in some surprises you wouldn't otherwise have had if you had them tamed.

Non-deviation from their natural genetic makeup. The genetic makeup for ferrets is that they roam free and explore unchartered territories fearlessly. Leaving them to their wild side will enable them to do just that. If you are planning to conduct research on ferrets, keeping them wild is the best way to keep them as close to their natural habitat and actuations as possible. This way, learning about your pet is maximized.

Owners will get the chance to see wild ferrets as they are, sans modifications that can be painful for them. Seeing ferrets au naturel has its perk. Modifying ferrets for domestication such as removing their gland (a big ouch for your mammal!) that secretes the offensive musky smell can really alter your ferret permanently.

One can have the option to train them at a later time. Once you have had enough of the adventures or misadventures of your wild ferret, you always have the option to tame them at a later time.

Disadvantages:

Wild ferrets may choose to be free from your ownership anytime. Since wild ferrets are designed to be free from any form of captivity or ownership, they will have no sense of loyalty whatsoever and will be free to roam around to places in any way they choose. If you truly want this whole thing to work, you have to be prepared to lose your ferret at anytime once they decide to break free and change their surroundings.

They have higher risk to diseases and early deaths. Wild ferrets are not regulated in any way. They will eat anything and everything that they see lying around. In fact, even domesticated ferrets still have this as a common cause of death. This risk to early deaths, lack of digestion and poisoning may be heightened. And treating them with a laxative may be all the more difficult if you have not trained your ferret even to get familiar with you to trust you.

They may pose a danger to you, especially to children. If you let ferrets be, they will remain as wild as ever and they may not be the kind of pet you would want to have around when there are many children who can get hurt. Children and ferrets are both playful and grow wild when untamed, and there is no predicting what kind of explosion may occur if you put them together in the same room and in the same condition.

Younger children are at a higher risk of getting bitten because they may not be able to regulate the way they touch your ferrets and the ferrets might interpret the child's playful cuddling as an attack.

Once you decide to train them later, they may be most resistant to your attempts. Training wild ferrets when old may not be as easy as when you start them out young. You might have to incur additional expenses and few ferret trainers will be willing to get bitten by an old wild ferret for a fee.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

How the heck would I buy a ferret online? I'm doing good to make it here!

There are tons of items you can buy through the web. You can get clothes, jewelry, toys and lately, animals such as ferrets are also available in the market.


Sites like these can be found all over the country. All you have to do is type in some keywords using a search engine then browse through what the seller or the breeder has available.

If you are thinking of getting a good deal by making the highest bid, don't even bother because you won't find live ferrets up for grabs here by looking them up in an auction site since you will only find the accessories.

Most sites have photos of the ferrets and when you have chosen the one you like, you can pay for it so this can be delivered or be told to pick it up yourself from the breeder. These are available in different ages, gender and color so take your pick.

You don't spend more or less when you decide to buy a ferret online instead of getting it in your neighborhood because the selling price of a ferret is still around $75 to $175 or more. At the same time that you are buying your ferret, you may also buy some other items like the cage and a few other accessories that will be an additional $100 to $450 or more.

Aside from breeders who sell ferrets online, you will also be able to find information that you will find useful in taking care of your pet. There are articles written by experts, books and posts which allow you to ask questions and read the responses from other ferret owners.

For people who have never raised a ferret before, it is best to do some research about this animal. You should know how to take care of them and most importantly, if it is legal to own one where you reside. As of now, ferrets are illegal to own as pets in the states of California, Hawaii, Texas and Canada. They are legal in the cities of Illinois, Minneapolis, New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island and owners are required to acquire a permit.

If you do not live in any of the areas mentioned, you should get in touch with your local game or wildlife department or your local vet.

But buying a ferret is not that different from buying any other item on the web. You still have to be careful who you buy it from to avoid being scammed by doing a background check. Since you want good value for your money, it is best to get in touch with a few breeders or sellers and then try negotatiting a bit before closing the deal.

Should you be required to pick up the animal yourself, examine it carefully by looking at the eyes, its behavior and the coat. Only if you are satisfied with the animal should you pay the whole amount and then take it home.

Buying ferrets online is simply a new means of owning this animal because aside from them, you may also get a ferret as a pet by adopting one from an animal shelter. These are usually abandoned and to weak to fend for themselves in the wild so it is best for someone to take care of them.

If you think you can handle it, go ahead and get one because this small little creature also needs a happy home.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Selling a ferret, Ferrets for Sale?

Ferrets are cute little creatures and chances are, you have seen one or two of them in television or in a movie. Years ago, they were used to hunt down and dig rabbits that were hiding underground but now many seem to be ideal pets.


You can buy a ferret from a breeder, a shelter or from a humane society. They usually cost around $75 to $175 depending on their age. You must never get one from the wild because they will not be able to adapt with the environment in your home.

If you can't find a breeder in the newspaper, you can try your luck online. While some sellers will tell you to pick them from their home, others are willing to ship it to you as long as you pay for the costs to transport.
You just have to find the right seller that makes buying it convenient for you. But remember the ideal is to go directly to the seller and see them in person, as you can then check how the breeder is keeping the ferrets. Making sure they are healthy and a clean environment etc.

It is best to also get in touch with the local wildlife, game department and local veterinarian to find out if it is legal to buy one since some states like California do not allow homeowners to have this as a pet.

When buying a ferret, don't just pick one from the lot but examine it carefully. You should check if the creature has bright eyes, a soft coat, healthy skin, whiskers and are playful. Don't forget to ask about the age and gender because males are generally much longer and heavier than the female ferret.

Buying a ferret is one thing. The challenging part is making sure it is healthy. This can only happen of course with tender and loving care from the owner because even though they sleep for more than 15 hours a day, they are very active when they are awake. Another challenge is finding a veterinarian who is willing to see your ferret.

You will also need to get the right cage and food for your ferret as these items can be purchased from the pet store. The ideal home of the ferret should 18" x 18" x 30". This is sufficient enough for them to move around inside and play with the toys. The cage should also be made of steel with small bars that it cannot squeeze through. There must be a solid floor or plastic liner on the bottom and a litter pan to catch waste that comes out.

Their diet must strictly be chicken, poultry or a combination of the two. It must have high levels protein and low levels of fat. This should not be rich carbs or sugar and if the store where you purchase this does not have this in stock, you must go elsewhere and not substitute this with food that is intended for other animals.

Some people have second thoughts of buying ferret because it smells. Although this is true, sellers usually descent the animal and neutered before this is purchased. Once it is with you, giving it a bath helps once in awhile helps.

Aside from the cage, you must also have a litter box so it can answer nature's call when it is outside. This should first be placed near the cage and once he or she is used to it, this can be relocated elsewhere.

Pets are great to have. If you want something small and yet playful, look around because you might just find a ferret for sale that is to your liking.