Stealing many a scene on the silver screen, ferrets most certainly hold top awards as the comedic clowns of the small animal world. With an otter-like love of frolic and fun, the ferret is an amazing little animal that is sure to put a smile on even the most serious of faces. Of course, with such a rowdy and rambunctious rascal in your home, you need to be extra careful and very responsible. Interested in what it takes to own a pet ferret or wanting to see if a ferret is the right pet for you? Check out these helpful hints to see if you and a ferret are the perfect match:
 What Are Ferrets?
The ferret is a domesticated cousin of animals such as the weasel, otter and mink. Originally trained for the purpose of flushing rabbits up out of their burrows, their numbers dwindled significantly when this practice was outlawed. Fortunately, their merit as a household jester saved them and the ferret soon became known as one of the more unique (and mischievous) choices that one could find in family pets. Today, the number of household ferrets continues to grow and, where they were once considered an unusual pet, it is not uncommon to find ferrets of all different shapes, colors and sizes throughout the world today.
Contrary to popular belief, the ferret is not a rodent but is, in fact, somewhere between the cat and dog on the taxonomical scale. Highly intelligent, these little creatures can be taught to use the litter box, walk on a leash, and can even do a variety of tricks. Do they seem like the perfect pet? Well, in all honesty, ferrets are not for everyone. First of all, they are highly mischievous (this cannot be said enough) and will get into anything and everything. Because of this, ferret owners must be extremely responsible and practice a ritual that many teasingly refer to as “ferret-proofing the home,” or they risk their ferret coming to harm, as well as losing numerous trinkets to thieving hands.
Additionally, many places require ferret owners to have licenses or permits in order to keep ferrets and, in some extreme cases, some areas are known as “ferret-free zones,” where ferrets are banned and having one in your possession is considered illegal. While the ferret has been domesticated for more than 2,500 years, this is often the result of their being grouped in with wild animals or exotics, or the common misconception that they carry rabies. Like dogs and cats, ferrets receive regular booster shots to keep them safe from harmful diseases. |
