Deciding on what age ferret to get is easier said than done. And it is a really impossible decision, unless you know something about the natural disposition of ferrets. So, let me give you a tip. Your decision should be based on your experiences, as well as your lifestyle. I've met lots of people who just won't settle for anything but a "baby ferret" or a kit, as the little ones are called.

Others would rather not deal with the training period of kits, so they want nothing to do with the babies. And yet others, usually parents, say to me, "But I think we should get a baby so that the ferret and little Susie can grow up together, bond and be good friends." What these people don't realize -- and what you may not either -- is the extreme sense of flexibility ferrets have. An adopted adult ferret will love you just as fiercely and loyally as if you adopted him from a little baby.

Although, it is hard to resist a baby of any species . . . it is extremely difficult not to fall hopelessly in love with a kit. They are both a delight and yet a little bit mischievous. And if that weren't enough, these little guys appear to have an endless supply of energy. If you think adults are fueled with energy and propelled with personality ... you have not seen anything yet!

But, if you already have small children in the house, you may not want to get a kit. There are a few aspects you need to consider before you mix small children and baby ferrets. The first of these being the fact that a baby kit will demand more of your time. And you already know you don't have much of it because of the small children in the house. Another good reason to keep the babies and baby kits separated is that the ferrets are still learning how to use their mouths as most young pets are. So they tend to be a bit "nippy." If you choose a kit, you'll not only have to train him, but teach the little guy what is right and what is wrong.

Adult ferrets make wonderful pets, too! No matter what any well-intending friend or family member tells you, you do not need that baby ferret time with this cute creature to feel the full bonding experience. An older ferret will love you, while also showing you every bit of charisma and energy you could ever imagine. And adult ferrets are easy enough to find. Unfortunately, there are far too many of them waiting in shelters across the nation to find good homes.

So what type of families would provide the perfect environment for an adult ferret (or two)? Families with small children, those of you looking to "cuddle" with a ferret, and the "rescuers" among the group. Before you take this step, though, you need to consider one thing. It's just a precautionary measure to make sure that the ferret you rescue will not end up back in a shelter. The life span of the average ferret is about eight years and means that you could have less time to spend with your adult adoptee than you would a kit. No matter what age ferret you choose, you are bound to enjoy every minute that you get to spend with your cute little furry friend.