Ferrets need more care than cats or dogs

Ferrets are more demanding, care wise, than either cats or dogs. Even though they can easily sleep around eighteen hours a day, as soon as they are up they are extremely active. On top of that they are also particularly inquisitive and are always running around exploring. If they are not always kept caged up, this makes them rather more accident prone. If you always keep them caged up, they will  not receive the appropriate stimulus and exercise they need, so this is something of a dilemma.

Vet visits

Over and above basic safety, however, there are certainly typical measures which just about any caring ferret owner should take time to implement to make certain that their ferret is kept in optimum physical and mental health. The average life span of ferrets is between six to eight years and for many of these years  they are going to require attention and veterinarian check-ups. The first veterinarian visit will be for a basic check-up and vaccinations. Rabies and canine distemper are definitely the two commonest health problems vaccines prevent, however inquire with your veterinarian regarding other disorders that could be an issue around your area. While doing so, the veterinarian may examine your ferret for lumps (symptoms of  insulinomas as well as other cancers), dental problems, possible adrenal disease symptoms along with other common ferret specific ailments.

Ferret proof your House

Ferrets possess capabilities that may often get them into difficulty. They are able to get into places which even a very small cat would never even contemplate. Ferret proofing your home to prevent your ferret from getting behind the oven,  into the sofa, falling off an upper floor landing as well as other locations is vital.

Bathing your Ferret

Giving your ferret a bath every six months is a great idea. This will   reduce odours and keep his skin healthy. However avoid eliminating its essential oils. Make sure you only use a shampoo made for ferrets. Frequently check for any kind of skin lesions or sores. Ferrets have got sharp claws and, just like dogs, they can develop hot spots that may cause  discomfort as well as possible infections.

Getting the wax out

Their ears should be cleaned monthly.  Wax can quite easily build up in a ferret’s ear which can cause yeast infections and other ailments.  A diluted basic ear cleansing solution injected into the ear canal using a  syringe, accompanied by a very soft massage for approximately twenty seconds, will have the desired effect. Your ferret will shake his head vigorously and dislodge any wax.

Getting both ends of your ferret examined on a regular basis might not be enjoyable, but it is  beneficial for your pet’s health.

Ferrets like to dig

Ferrets will frequently dig in their litter boxes. If the material used in the litter box is not of the correct type (and occasionally even if it is), it may get up their noses and cause a  blockage. This can result in upper respiratory system issues, tenderness in the membranes and  various other problems. Furthermore, ensure, that in the case of female ferrets, there is no inflammation of the vulva, or, for both sexes,  the presence of a prolapsed rectum. The latter  could come about as a result of  insufficient water in your ferret’s diet or perhaps an infection which causes straining. In such cases your vet will probably prescribe an antibiotic, like Clavamox or Baytril  .

Ferrets like running around

Frequent exercise outside of the cage helps maintain your ferret’s mental health and also exercises those muscle groups that some cages do not permit. If you let them go outside your house either put them on  a leash, or make sure that the area they are going into is enclosed and without any holes. Ferrets naturally search for holes along with small places to investigate. However they’re far better at getting in than getting out. Ferrets really do not tolerate high temperatures or severe cold very well. If the temperature is above 80°F (26,5°C) or below 45°F (7°C) your ferret is at risk. The hotter it is, the greater the importance of having lots of fresh water readily available.