Yes, ferrets reek! But ferrets make good pets and I would still recommend owning one of these fascinating animals. There is a reason why they are fast becoming a popular pet and I'm here to tell you why. But first, I want to address the "reek" factor of ferrets. They do come from the weasel family and carry a musk that might not be to everyone's liking. But, unless you're planning to breed ferrets, a quick spay or neuter by your veterinarian will control the odor. On a side note, spaying or neutering your ferret is done mostly for health reasons, not odor control. So whether you like the smell or not, get your pet spayed or neutered.
Ferrets are good looking creatures, and that's why you first noticed them right? They're cute - especially the ones that have a raccoon mask. But what sets ferrets apart from other animals is their infectious, and I mean infectious, personalities. Ferrets are quintessential charmers. They're playful, curious, and intelligent. But don't be fooled by their charms. They are also professional thieves, conmen, and hold multiple violations, such as breaking and entering and destruction of property. Don't worry, they mean all good.
Besides having all the fun, ferrets do need to be taken care of properly. They need a big airy ferret cage, ferret food, litter box, play toys, playtime and a little bit of firm discipline. You should also be prepared to clean the litter box daily and provide fresh food and water everyday. Your home needs to be fully "ferret proofed", meaning your home needs to be checked for escape routes, dangerous wires and chewable objects.
Luckily, ferrets are fairly simple to care for. Ferrets are professional sleepers and can snooze up to 20 hours a day; which is perfect for anyone with a busy schedule. You do need to set up some playtime everyday though. Ferrets need daily mental and physical stimulation.
If you have kids or other pets, please use caution. Ferrets tend to play rough. They'll jump, claw and nip at you to entice you to play a game of hide and seek and this maybe a little too much for a toddler. Ferrets are natural born hunters. Actually, they're natural born rodent killers. All the way to present time, ferrets are used for hunting vermin. They have an amazing ability to smell and go into the smallest holes to get what they want. So if you do have any pet rats, birds, mice, hamsters, or rabbits, I would use caution when introducing them to your ferret. I have seen many times that they can be friends, but if your rodent ends up missing one day, don't say that I didn't warn you.
Ferrets make the ultimate pets, but they are a reflection of what owners can provide for them. It is no coincidence that there are many ferrets in shelters looking for a good home, so please make it your responsibility to prepare yourself before bringing home one of these fascinating creatures into your world.
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