Feeding a New Food
Switching to a new ferret food is generally done because of health reasons or because the food the ferret is eating isn't meeting her nutritional needs. But switching foods is not as simple as just putting the new food in the bowl. The change must be done gradually to avoid stomach problems, diarrhea, anorexia, or more serious issues.
When you switch your ferret's diet, it absolutely must be done slowly. Start by adding the new food to the old food at a ratio of 1 parts new to 9 parts old. The amount of new food should be increased as the amount of old food is decreased over a period of two to four weeks, depending on how picky your ferret is. Eventually you can phase out the old food completely.
During the switch you need to keep an eye on your ferret. It's totally normal to see some loose stool during the switch, but if your ferret has regular diarrhea, if he refuses to eat, or if he shows any other signs that there may be a health issue, schedule a veterinary appointment.
Some ferrets are pickier than others. If you are having problems getting your ferret to eat the new food, you can try the following tricks:
- Put the foods together in a plastic bag so the smells mingle
- Grind up the new food or both foods and mix them with water to form a paste or with baby food to make duck soup
- Drizzle FerreTone on the new food
- Offer the new food out of your hand like a treat
Always make the switch at your ferret's pace. With a very picky ferret, changing diets can take a few months or longer.
