While others prefer to have a pet cat or dog, perhaps you’d rather have a ferret for company. It would be no surprise to us that you would, since ferrets are curious, playful, loving and social creatures that make wonderful pets and are quite easy to care for. But of course, there are some ferret care factors to consider before you make your final decision in owning one, such as the following.
Ferrets Require Time and Attention
Although they are not difficult to care for, ferrets still need your time and attention. They are more suitable for people who have more time in their day for their pets. During most of the day, they are naturally quiet and friendly, but there are also times when they can be overly active. They will need occasional supervision so they don’t get in any serious trouble.
As with any pet, they require your attention to maintain their physical and mental health. You need to be able to provide them with their basic needs like food, water and shelter, as well as some bonding activities to keep them intelligent and inquisitive. If you are very busy with your job and you barely have time for yourself, you should think twice about getting a pet ferret.
Having a Ferret Can be Costly
The cost of buying a pet ferret varies, depending on where you adopt one. But paying for ownership is just the beginning. Owning a ferret also means you have to buy a cage for shelter, nutritious food for everyday intake and other ferret care supplies such as shampoo, a collar, cage cleaner and so on. You also have to shoulder the cost of any medications, vitamin supplements and vaccinations. All these costs should be considered in order for you to determine if you can comfortably afford having a pet ferret.
Children and Ferrets Sometimes Don’t Mix
Do you have children at home? How old are your kids? Are they excited about having a pet ferret? If they are, you’re in luck because that’s already half the work. Keep in mind though that ferrets can’t be left under the supervision of a child. Older children may be able to handle this pet, but it’s a different story for younger ones. In fact, ferrets are generally not recommended for households with children ages 6 or below.
Ferrets and Other Pets May or May Not Get Along
It’s not only the kids that you should be worried about but also your other pets. What other pets do you have at home? Take note that ferrets don’t usually get along with birds or small animals like rabbits, fish or gerbils, because ferrets are natural hunters. If you insist on adopting a pet ferret even when you already have other pets, you will need to keep a close eye at all times to maintain peace and order in your home.
Ferrets are lovable creatures that we’re sure you will enjoy having as a pet, but these ferret care factors should still be regarded beforehand. By doing so, it may be more likely that you two will have a smooth-sailing relationship between pet and pet owner.
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