Ferrets should normally be confined in a safe, secure area such as a cage when they are not under direct supervision. Ferrets are highly inquisitive and active animals that require daily interaction and play time in a safe area outside of their normal confinement. It is very important that they are directly supervised whenever they are outside of their cage to protect them from injury.
Ferrets are very curious animals that have a propensity to chew, often on unsuitable and potentially dangerous objects. Swallowed objects can become hazardous by way of intestinal obstruction. Providing daily play time outside of their cage will also help to maintain the ferret-owner bond.
You should provide a cage as large as possible. The cage should be well-ventilated and large enough to allow the ferret to stretch out, walk around and turn around with ease. Ferrets enjoy exploring, so rearranging their cage furnishings regularly (provide boxes, tunnels etc) will provide them with entertainment. They also need a small cosy sleeping area in their cage. Ferrets are vulnerable to heat stress, so you should ensure the area they are kept in will not become too hot.
Ferrets are readily toilet-trained, often preferring to toilet in corners. Place litter boxes in the corners of cages and in the corner of each room that they play in. Suitable litter types include shredded paper or recycled paper cat litter.
Ideally, ferrets need to be exposed to ‘normal’ day/night cycles throughout the year. Some occasional exposure to sunlight may also be beneficial.
As ferrets are highly social animals, keeping at least two ferrets together as a pair rather than a single pet is recommended. Care should be taken to avoid any unintended litters of baby ferrets.
