Signs of a Healthy Ferret
Ferrets obviously can't tell us whether or not they're healthy, so it's important that you know the signs of good ferret health. This is important both when choosing a ferret from a pet store or shelter and when observing your ferret on a daily basis.
Signs of good ferret health include:
- Soft, glossy coat that is not patchy, coarse, matted, or otherwise dirty
- Bright, clear eyes that are free of discharge and cloudiness
- Clean ears free of excessive wax and odors
- Clean teeth that are not broken or discolored
- Trimmed nails that are not split, torn, or curling under
- Healthy skin that is pink, springy, and healthy looking without any sores
- Active, curious attitude
- Alert to surroundings
If you are choosing a ferret in a pet store, we recommend that you avoid ferrets that are living in filthy cages. Though they may look healthy, it is highly likely that they are carrying parasites or some other disease, and you could bring it home to your other ferrets and pets.
If you are noticing any signs of ill health (discharge from ears, sores on the skin, bald spots, etc.) in your pet ferret, schedule a veterinary appointment immediately. For many health issues, a swift response makes a big difference in how effective treatment will be.
Comments
I recently went to Petco and picked up some 8 in 1 Ferret Bites Peanut Butter Flavor, I opened the can last night and noticed raisins in it! Also there are pineapple chunks and other fruits not good for ferrets. I'm concerned that many pet food manufacturers are not informed on what is good for ferrets. Do you have any suggestions on how to bring this to manufacturer's attention? Am I misinformed that ferrets are obligate carnivores?
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Editor's Note:
No, you are correct in saying that ferrets are obligate carnivores, and you are also right that many treats and foods that are marketed for ferrets are not actually very healthy for them.
If you are concerned, I would recommend contacting 8 in 1 Pet directly via email or letter. Be sure to state your concerns calmly and rationally. You could also try contacting the International Ferret Congress to see if they currently have any petitions you could sign or form letters you could use. They have been working on getting unhealthy ferret treats pulled from the shelves for years.
Posted by: Kimberley Fedukovich | May 21, 2008 08:51 AM
Please HELP!!
My ferret has a I guess a bad attitude at times! Majority of the day she is very playful and good tempered but the last two nights she will grab a toy and run away and she will be overly protective of this toy. She will bite me if I attempt to take this toy away and if I get close to her she will start hissing and get very upset. What can I do to correct this? Is there anything I can do?? Please let me know!!!
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Editor's Note:
Ferrets don't really have "bad attitudes." She's just interacting with you like she would another ferret - you're trying to take away what she wants, so she's going to protect it. If she's only doing it when you approach her while she has the toy, I would recommend that you just leave her be when she's playing with it. If she wants to play with you, she'll come over to you.
If you really want her to stop doing it, just take the toy while she's not playing with it and put it somewhere out of her reach. Wait two weeks and give it back to her, then see how she reacts when you go near her while she's playing with it.
Posted by: Brandon Ashley | June 9, 2008 11:05 PM