• Originally published February 6, 2008 at 5 p.m., updated February 6, 2008 at 5 p.m.

Q: My son wants a ferret because his best friend has one, what are the basics to ferret care?

A: Ferrets are in the same family as skunks, weasels and badgers. They have a “musky odor” that is the most undesirable feature in the ferret. Their scent glands are removed and neutering will help, but it does not totally eliminate the odor.

Regular bathing will also greatly lower the musk coming from the skin glands. There are numerous products approved for bathing ferrets that make a world of difference. The joy and entertainment you get from interacting with them far outweighs the mild odor.

Ferrets are a very mischievous and acrobatic creatures and they should be supervised at all times when they are out of their cage. Ferrets can get themselves into very tight and awkward spaces (such as in or under the clothes dryer) where they sometimes can’t get out. They are also known for stealing and chewing on objects around the house. Ferrets will often eat materials that cannot be digested. Symptoms to watch for are vomiting, loss of appetite, or change in their bowel movements. Talk with your veterinarian if any of these symptoms are noticed.

Ferrets are considered easy keepers. They are litter box trainable and will usually pick a corner to relieve themselves.

While there are commercial ferret foods that are readily available, some people feed them cat food but this can cause nutritional deficiencies. You can supplement your ferret’s diet by giving them treats of liver, egg yolk, milk, bread, or fruit and vegetables. Any table food should be given only in small quantities and introduced slowly.

Ferrets can be housed inside or out. They should be placed in an escape-proof cage with room for a bed or hammock to sleep in, food and water, and an exercise area. When they are outside they need good air circulation and shade in the summer months to prevent heat exhaustion and a heat source if the temperature drops below 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

Health wise, they do require vaccinations. Ferrets, for example, are highly susceptible to canine distemper. They also need to be vaccinated against rabies. Check with your veterinarian for vaccination schedules.

Ferrets have a lifespan of 5 to 9 years and you can usually purchase them after they are weaned, which can be as young as 8 weeks. When a ferret is purchased from a pet store they should have two black tattoo dots on the right ear that indicates that they have been spayed or neutered and they have been descented. There is a large array of color variations, but the sable and the albino are the most common.

Call your veterinarian if you have any questions before purchasing a ferret.

Dr. John Beck has a veterinary practice at Hillcrest Animal Hospital in Victoria. Submit questions to Dr. Beck at drjohnbeck@hotmail.com.

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