The Ideal Pet
Author: Sue Jan
If you love pets that are quiet and cute, then ferrets will be
the right choice. Because by their very appearance, many people
tend to mistake them for rodents but they are actually more like
a cross between a cat and a dog.
During earlier times ferrets were used to hunt down, or dig out
rabbits from their burrows. But nowadays they are mostly kept as
pets. If you are thinking of buying a ferret, you should buy one
from reputable shelters or breeders or from the Humane Society.
Before taking your ferret home, make sure that your ferret has
been given the necessary vaccinations. It is also a good idea
to consult a local veterinarian for information on common
ferret diseases and their cure. Ferrets live roughly for about
7 to 10 years. A ferret costs around $75 to $120, depending on
its age and from where you buy.
Contrary to common belief, ferrets can be trained effectively
though it may not be as easy as training cats or dogs. Training
ferrets to learn the rules of the house will be a gradual
process. The best way to reward a ferret for positive behavior
is by giving it food. For behaviors that are not acceptable,
paying no attention to the ferret or confining it in the cage
will work wonders. As ferrets move around a lot, they tend to
mess up the rooms. Nipping is also a major problem associated
with ferrets. Nevertheless they can be trained to use the
litter and not to nip.
Good ferret care is important for raising a healthy and happy
ferret. Frequent interaction with their owners help ferrets get
used to their new homes. It is also a good idea to spend a lot
of time with your new pet ferret especially during the early
days of domesticating. Ferrets that are used to playing with
people since their baby days tend to be more friendly and
playful. Though ferrets sleep almost 15 to 16 hours a day, they
are very active the rest of the time and love to play with toys
and frolic around.
Ferrets are carnivores by nature and require a diet rich in
animal protein and low in fiber. Ferrets were generally given
cat or dog dry foods before, but nowadays specially packed
ferret foods are available in pet shops. Totally Ferret,
Ferrotone and Zupreem are the most common ferret food brands
among ferret owners.
A variety of ferret accessories are now also available on the
market, which include toys, cages and other innovative items.
Large cages should be bought complete with floors, stairs and
tunnels. If you have enough space in your backyard, you can
also make a natural abode for your pet, including hammocks,
hanging bunks, cozy beds and custom litters.
About The Author: To find out how to care for ferrets, drop by
Susan's sites at http://www.ferret-world.info. Susan also
enjoys writing on various topics at
http://www.shopping-and-society-hub.info.