The pet ferret is a unique animal to care for and live with. You may have had a cat or a dog in the past and come looking for something more exotic. Or it may be your first pet ever. Regardless, this is a change for you, and one I believe will be for the better. Here’s an overview of what it’s like to own a ferret.

First thing you should know is that ferrets sleep a lot. The novice pet ferret owner tends to freak out when their ferret is sleeping for 18-20 hours per day, but this is very common for ferrets. Yes, ferrets are renowned for their energy, but only when they’re awake. And who wouldn’t be full of energy during their waking hours if they slept that much?

Because of this factor, your ferret is going to need space to roam around when it is awake, and I don’t mean just inside the cage. Be prepared to set aside some time each day to let your ferret out and play with it. You may not want to let them have free reign over the entire house, as you may lose track of them and it’s harder to make safe. You’re probably better off picking one room, and checking it thoroughly for things that your ferret could choke on or get hurt with. You may want to be sure you keep your jewelry put away as well.

Some ferret owners like letting their pet ferret see more of the world. If you fall into this category, it means you’re going to want to purchase a ferret harness and a leash to walk your ferret.

You have to be especially careful about feeding your ferret. They have unique digestive systems catered to the carnivore. They can’t really digest fiber and have certain needs of protein, fat, and calcium. If they don’t get the right ratio of these things they tend to keep eating until they get enough of that limiting factor. Otherwise pet ferrets typically don’t overeat as commonly as other domesticated animals.

You should also be prepared to train your ferret for a variety of activities if you got it as a kit or slightly older. This ranges from nip training and socialization to harness training. Most of these aren’t that hard to do, but for some it does take a vigilant eye and a commitment.

Your pet ferret will also need to take trips to the vet every so often for checkups and shots. The most important of these shots are the distemper shots given as a kit because distemper is almost always fatal if a ferret contracts it. Checkups can also provide a measure of early detection for ferret cancer and other nasty maladies that there may be no outward signs for.

Yes, caring for a pet ferret may seem exhausting at times, but hang in there. It can be an extremely rewarding and heart-warming experience. I wish you luck and happiness with your new friend.