When you are looking for a pet for your family, there are many different factors that you need to consider in this type of situation. You need to consider what is going to be best for your family’s specific situation. You should also keep in mind whether you are going to be able to meet all of the animals needs. Read the rest of this entry »
The diet you feed your pet ferret is critical to their health. Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning they must have a diet high in animal protein and fat. In the wild they would be eating small prey and ingesting all of the body parts. Their food should be 32 to 38% protein from animal rather than vegetable sources.
Ferrets have short digestive tracts and no cecum (a part of the large intestine that processes fiber) and do not digest vegetable matter well. Read the rest of this entry »
Many people are now considering ferrets as pets. This animal is the third most popular pet in the United States according to the pet industry, in spite of the fact that it’s illegal to own one in California, one of our most populous states.
You may be thinking of getting a ferret yourself.
Just don’t make the mistake of assuming that this curious, independent critter is anything like any other pet you’ve ever known.
The ferret is a small, long-bodied, low-slung creature closely related to weasels, skunks, wolverines and badgers. Their sleek bodies and thick soft fur reveal their close relationship to the mink, while their intelligence, ingenuity and playfulness mark them as a relative of the otter. All these animals are carnivores, and the ferret is no exception.
Since a ferret can live for 7 to 9 years or even longer, you must really understand what you’re getting into before adopting one of these little animals as a household pet.
For the ferret’s well-being, and yours, the adoption of a ferret should be a decision that is made after long and careful thought.
For instance, you should not assume that the ferret is a good substitute for your young child’s hamster, since ferrets require lots of attention, playtime and affection. They are very social animals, and can’t stay locked in their cage forever without company or companionship. If you can’t spend several hours a day playing and socializing with your ferret, you should consider a goldfish instead. Read the rest of this entry »