How much do ferrets cost?
When considering the purchase of a ferret, many potential ferret owners only consider the immediate cost of the ferret. They don't stop to consider all the supplies that must be purchased and the long term care that's involved. Though ferrets only cost anywhere from $100 to $200 in the pet store, the costs associated with owning a ferret are substantial, and there are many financial responsibilities that accompany ferret ownership.
Supplies
Either before you bring your ferret home or the day you buy her, you will need to buy a cage, food, treats, litter, bedding, toys, and cage accessories such as water bottles, food bowls, and a litter pan. The initial cost of supplies can total upwards of $500.
You will need to plan to buy supplies on a monthly basis throughout the rest of the ferret's life. You can expect to spend up to $200 on food a year, $200 on litter, $70 to $80 on treats and toys, and more money on other supplies.
Veterinary Care
Within the first two weeks after you bring your ferret home, you will need to schedule a veterinary appointment to make sure the ferret is healthy and to have the second canine distemper vaccination administered. Veterinary costs vary widely, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $100 if there are no health issues. You will also need at least two more appointments within the next month to get the third canine distemper booster shot and the rabies vaccination.
You should also consider the medical costs that you will encounter as the ferret gets older. Ferrets are prone to a number of different cancers, and the treatment for these diseases can cost thousands of dollars in the long run. In addition to treatment for health problems, your ferret will also need yearly exams and more yearly vaccinations. Even when your ferret is healthy, veterinary care can cost you $250 to $500 a year.
As you can see, the answer to "how much do ferrets cost" is a lot more involved than just the price of the ferret in the pet store! We encourage all potential ferrets owners to do their research and determine whether or not a ferret is the right pet for them before purchasing a ferret.
