WHAT IS A FERRET

WHAT IS A FERRET?

The domestic European ferret (Mustela putorius furo), is a member of the mustelid family which also includes otters, mink, badgers, weasels, skunks, & numerous other musk-producing mammals. The domestic ferret should not be confused with the Black-Footed ferret (Mustela nigripes), a close cousin, which is native to North America & currently on the endangered species list. Ferrets are not members of the rodent family, nor are they related to the opossum, raccoon or mongoose.

AREN'T FERRETS WILD ANIMALS?

NO. It is assumed that ferrets have been domesticated for over 2,000 years, long before our common house cats. They have been captively bred for good temperament over the centuries. They were introduced into the U.S. for rodent control in the 1600's.

Domestic ferrets have no chance of survival without human intervention. Ferrets lost outside the home or abandoned will surely die within 3-4 days. They are not capable of finding their own food - dry cat food doesn't grow on trees. And most ferrets have no fear & wouldn't hesitate to walk up to a strange dog, cat or wild animal.

AREN'T FERRETS ILLEGAL IN GEORGIA?

"GEORGIA WILD ANIMAL LAW - April 19, 1994
CHAPTER 5
Wild Animals
27-5-5 Wild animals for which a license or permit is required.
(B) Except as provided in this Code section, a license or permit is required for all wild animals listed in this subsection or specified by regulation of the Board. Wild animals listed in this subsection do not require mandatory liability insurance.

(1) Class Mammalia:
(K) Order Carnivora (weasels, ferrets, cats, bears, wolves, etc.) - All species, except that a European ferret (Mustela putorius furo) may be sold, purchased, exhibited or held as a pet without a license or permit; provided, however, that the ferret owner can provide valid documentation that the ferret is sexually neutered prior to seven months of age and is vaccinated against rabies with a properly administered vaccine approved for use on ferrets by the
United States Department of Agriculture."

AREN'T FERRETS AGGRESSIVE AND DON'T THEY BITE A LOT?

Remember, animals have teeth, & any animal that has not been taught proper manners will bite. Kits (baby ferrets) can be nippy. Grabbing things with their mouth is how they play when they're young, just like puppies and kittens. With the correct handling & training, ferrets are no more likely to bite than
a dog, cat, or child.

Always be in control of your ferret when it is in strange surroundings, or being introduced to new people. Special caution should be taken around children & the elderly as their skin is more delicate & easily damaged. Ferrets are still a unique animal in the eyes of many, and anybody (especially any parent whose child has been bitten by a ferret), could turn your life into a nightmare, causing you to voluntarily give up your pet for rabies testing in order to avoid a long, messy lawsuit and extensive medical costs. And, as with all animals, never leave your ferret unsupervised with a small child. A ferret is not a toy.

WHAT IF MY FERRET DOES BITE ME OR SOMEONE ELSE?
SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT RABIES?

There were a total of 85 ferrets tested for rabies between 1990 and 1995 - none were positive for the disease. The following is from the Georgia Rabies Control Manual and was taken directly from the Georgia Public Health web page at: http://www.ph.dhr.state.ga.us/epi/manuals/rabies/index.html

"CONTROL METHODS IN ANIMALS
Ferrets: Ferrets may be vaccinated with RM IMRAB3 vaccine at three months of age and revaccinated in accordance with Part II of the "Compendium of Animal Rabies Control" [See Appendix A]."

"MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS THAT SCRATCH OR BITE HUMANS
DOMESTIC ANIMALS (Dogs, Cats and Ferrets):

A healthy dog, cat or ferret that bites or scratches a person or another animal should be confined and observed for ten (10) days. This recommendation applies to dogs, cats and ferrets ONLY. Rabies vaccine should NOT be administered during the observation period. Observation of dogs, cats and ferrets is of value because the length of time that virus is excreted in their saliva prior to onset of clinical signs can be predicted. Studies have shown that virus is shed in the saliva of the vast majority of dogs and cats up to five days prior to onset of clinical signs. The ten-day interval, therefore, represents a doubling of the likely excretory period. If a dog, cat or ferret
shows no clinical signs of rabies during the ten-day observation period, one can be assured that the animal was not shedding virus at the time of the scratch or bite. While in confinement, any signs of illness should be evaluated immediately by a veterinarian.

In Georgia, the location and method of confinement for this observation period is specified in regulations of the county health department. Generally, the place of confinement is an approved animal shelter, the Humane Society, or the animal control agency. Other confinement options may be allowed under county regulations, depending on circumstances. If symptoms suggestive of rabies are observed, the animal should be humanely killed, its head carefully removed
using appropriate precautions and shipped under refrigeration (on ice) for examination by the State Public Health Laboratory [refer to "Laboratory Testing,"]. If the animal dies during the quarantine period, the head should be submitted immediately for rabies testing.

Any stray or unwanted animal that bites or scratches a person or domestic animal may be humanely killed and the head submitted for testing [Note: If an animal is killed by gunshot or trauma to the head, the laboratory may not be able to perform the rabies diagnostic test.]. Animals other than dogs or cats that bite or scratch a person and are suspected of being rabid should be reported to the county health department or its agent which in some counties
is the animal control office or police department depending on county regulations. Prior vaccination of these animals may not be a reason or exclusion from euthanasia and testing if the period of viral shedding for that species is not established or if the vaccine is not approved for that species. Management of animals (other than dogs, cats and ferrets) is dependent on the
animal species, the circumstances of the bite, and the epidemiology of rabies in the area."

CONSULTATIONS REGARDING THE RISK OF RABIES EXPOSURE DUE TO ANIMAL BITES ARE NOW AVAILABLE TO HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS AND THE PUBLIC 24 HOURS A DAY, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK BY CALLING THE GEORGIA POISON CENTER IN ATLANTA -
404-616-9000 OR 800-282-5846.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER VACCINATIONS A FERRET SHOULD HAVE?

It is strongly recommended that ferrets also be vaccinated against canine distemper - they are extremely susceptible to this disease which is always fatal. A ferret does not have to have contact with an infected animal to contract this disease. Fervac D and Galaxy D are the vaccines of choice. The initial "baby shot" is given at 6 to 8 weeks-of-age with follow-up vaccinations every 3 weeks. The last of the "baby shots" should be at 14 to 16 weeks to assure continuous protection for the next 12 months. Before the 14th
week the kit may still be protected by the mother's natural immunity which reduces the effectiveness of the vaccine. Yearly booster vaccinations are required.

IS A FERRET A BETTER PET THAN A DOG, CAT, BIRD...?

Choosing any pet is a matter of individual preference & lifestyle. Knowledge is the key to the correct choice of any family pet. Speak to a ferret owner & visit with some ferrets before deciding whether or not this is the right pet for you.

CAN A FERRET PLAY WITH A DOG, CAT, BIRD...?

While many ferret owners successfully allow their ferret(s) to play with their dog(s) &/or cat(s), these interactions should always be supervised. Ferrets should not be allowed to come in contact with birds, snakes or other reptiles, & other caged animals. These encounters could end with disastrous results. Fish tanks should be securely covered for the safety of the ferret.

WHAT ARE FERRETS LIKE AS PETS?

Ferrets are kitten-like in temperament, retaining their playful nature well into old age. They seek & enjoy the company of people & other companion pets. While ferrets don't mind being confined to their cage when you're not there to supervise, they need interaction & want to be with you. They are even-
tempered, adapting to change undaunted. They are not jealous or territorial. They are not nocturnal & adjust to your schedule. They usually have no fear of anything including vacuum cleaners!

Adult females (jills), weigh from less that 1 lb. to 3 lbs. & adult males (hobs), weigh from 2 1/2 lbs. to 5 lbs. on average. Because of their small size, they are ideally suited to apartment living. Their life span is between 5 and 10 years.

Ferrets are quiet & will not disturb the neighbors. If they make any sound at all it will be chittering, chattering, or giggling when they're happy or a hissing sound (like a cat, but much less threatening), when they're telling you off. A ferret may scream (& it's unnerving), if it is severely frightened or hurt & should be allowed to settle down by itself.

Most ferrets do not claw furniture or curtains or chew furniture & your home won't be constantly covered with fur because they only shed twice a year.

Ferrets have an unwritten rule that no drink - glass, cup, or can - shall remain upright. And they do love to dig - plants cannot be left accessible. Stereo speakers also cannot be within ferret range as they will get inside & destroy them. They can be described as perpetual 2-year-olds - they are very curious & get into everything. Their inquisitive nature is usually what gets them into trouble.

Ferrets are notorious little thieves, collecting anything they take an interest in; wallets, sneakers, socks, keys, jewelry, children's toys, & just about anything else that strikes their fancy. They are also packrats,
occasionally relocating their entire stash.

Ferrets can be taught to come when called, walk on a leash, beg, fetch, & use a litter box. Using treats as rewards is the easiest way to train a ferret. Although ferrets can be taught to use a litter box, they may never be as reliable as a cat, but their mess is much smaller & far less offensive in odor. They are predictable in that they usually go when they wake up & sniff around corners when it's time to go again. Litter boxes must be very accessible, if not, a ferret may not make the effort to get all the way back to it if it's all the way in the other room.

Ferrets are easily entertained. Some favorite playthings are paper cups, paper & crinkly plastic bags, cardboard boxes, 4" PVC pipe, accordion dryer venting, open drawers, closets, purses (there's lots of stuff in there!), balls, shoes, boots & socks, just to name a few. They love cat & mouse games & tug-of-war. They love to chase you or be chased around the room.

NOTE: TOYS MUST BE CHECKED REGULARLY & DISCARDED IF WORN OR CHEWED. INGESTED RUBBER, PLASTIC, OR CLOTH WILL NOT PASS THROUGH A FERRET'S TINY DIGESTIVE TRACT CAUSING INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTIONS. THESE OBSTRUCTIONS REQUIRE SURGERY TO CORRECT & CAN CAUSE RAPID DEATH IF NOT TREATED PROMPTLY.

CAN I LET MY FERRET HAVE THE RUN OF THE HOUSE LIKE I DO WITH MY DOG OR CAT?
ONLY UNDER CONSTANT SUPERVISION. The intense curiosity of the ferret is often the cause of their injury & untimely death. Ferrets should always be confined to their "room" (cage or pet carrier), when not being supervised. Ferret-proofing your home is a very important consideration because of their small size. It is important to know the hazards. The following are some of the most common.

FERRETS...

Love to sleep in dirty laundry and can be thrown in with the wash unnoticed
Can climb into an open refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, or dryer unnoticed
Can be mutilated in refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher and dryer motors
Can drown in tubs, buckets and open toilets
Can get into walls through openings around pipes & if you live in an apartment that also means your neighbor's walls
Can open cabinet doors, climb into & open the drawer, get onto the counter & check out the garbage disposal or whatever's cooking on the stove
Can squeeze through openings around cabinets
Can puncture plastic bottles containing harmful household cleaners
Can get into unsecured vents & household ducts
Can be crushed in reclining chairs, sofa beds, exercise equipment, under rocking chairs & in closing doors
Can also be sat or stepped on & crushed under chair pillows, blankets and throw rugs
Can break through window screens & plastic accordion-type dryer hose & can slip right past your feet any time a door is opened & escape outside

NOTE: IF YOUR FERRET ESCAPES OUTSIDE, YOU WILL PROBABLY NEVER SEE HIM/HER
ALIVE AGAIN

WELL, WHAT DO I KEEP MY FERRET IN?

Pet carriers and galvanized or coated-wire cages work best. Assuming a ferret will be out of it's cage everyday, minimum floor space should be 14" x 27" for a single ferret. This provides enough space for a sleeping area & a small litter box if you elect to use one. Wire bottom cages should have most of the
floor area covered with rags, pet matting, or carpet that has been thoroughly washed so that the ferret isn't always walking directly on the wire floor. Upper levels & hammocks can be added. Fish tanks are a big NO-NO - they do not afford proper ventilation.

Clumping-type litters are not recommended. It can be irritating to the eyes & nasal passages of a ferret that likes to play ostrich. Use clay cat litter for best results. Cedar shavings should also not be used - they can be toxic to a ferret. Wood shavings, in general, should not be used.

BUT, IS IT CRUEL TO KEEP A FERRET CAGED UP?

No. Keeping a ferret caged when unsupervised will assure it's well-being. If they can, most ferrets will climb back into their cage on their own once they get tired.

CAN FERRETS BE HOUSED OUTDOORS?

Under certain conditions. Ferrets should be acclimated to the outdoors in the spring. They should not be introduced to extreme temperatures (above 85 degrees and below 45 degrees), without a transition period, as it would be a shock to their system. Provide adequate shelter & bedding in extreme cold, &
sufficient shade & cool water in hot weather. Outdoor cages should be kept locked to prevent theft & should be sturdy enough to protect your ferret from other animals.

It is recommended that ferrets that go outdoors or are housed outdoors be given a heartworm preventive. The heartworm preventive of choice is Ivomec (ivermectin) liquid, which is given monthly. Consult your veterinarian.

Ferrets enjoy the companionship of their owners. The GFA recommends that you keep your ferret indoors to share in your day-to-day routine & prevent your ferret from being disturbed or harmed by those who might not understand or value your unique pet.

WHAT DO I FEED MY FERRET?

Any good premium dry cat food available in your local pet store, (Iams, Science Diet, Nutro Max, Purina, ProPlan), or any of the newly formulated ferret foods (Totally Ferret, Sheppard & Greene, Mazzuri) available in your local pet store, are sufficient for the average ferret. Due to their extremely
fast metabolism, food must be available at all times. Choose your ferret's food carefully. Their food should contain approx. 30-32% protein & approx. 18% fat, & be aware that foods containing fish, fish meal, & fish oils can contribute to a stronger odor in your ferret. Use dishes & feeders that can be
securely fastened to prevent food dish football.

Fresh water must also be available at all times. Use of a guinea pig or rabbit water bottle is recommended as ferrets also tend to knock over water dishes.

More often than not, your ferret will tell you what treats they prefer. Goodies such as fresh fruits or vegetables, & dried fruits such as raisins, dates, or banana chips can be offered.

Vitamin supplements are not necessary if a healthy ferret is maintained on a good quality dry cat food or one of the newly developed ferret foods. Supplements containing high levels of vitamins A, D3, E & K, which are fat soluble & can accumulate in the system to toxic levels, should be given very sparingly. Nutri-Cal, which is a dietary supplement in a paste form is preferred. Consult your veterinarian.

Don't give your ferret chocolate or alcohol, they could be fatal. Milk & ice cream can cause diarrhea & raw meat can transmit parasites. Hard to digest foods such as peanuts & uncooked vegetables such as carrots could cause intestinal obstructions (often requiring surgery), & should be avoided. And ferrets are not rodents & must not be given salt blocks or seeds.

BUT, FERRETS STINK!

A ferret's body odor is mainly hormonal & a whole ferret (unspayed/unneutered), will have a strong odor. A spayed/neutered ferret who is kept clean, fed a chicken-based food & also has a clean cage & bedding, will have minimal odor. Contrary to popular belief descenting (removing the scent glands), does not control a ferret's body odor - it is an unnecessary surgery & expense.

Use specially formulated ferret shampoos or shampoos which are safe for kittens to bathe your ferret. Using a tearless shampoo makes it easy to wash around the head & ears (it is OK to wash a ferret's ears out). One easy way to wash your ferret is to carry it into the shower with you, but the sink or tub also work just fine. After bathing, your ferret will go bonkers running around & flinging itself to dry off - this is normal behavior & lots of fun to watch.

CAN FERRETS GET FLEAS?

Yes. And because of their small body mass, fleas can cause a very serious problem for ferrets in a very short time. Handle flea problems in your home the same way you would for a dog or cat, but use only flea shampoos, sprays, and powders that are labeled safe for cats & kittens on ferrets. Never dip a
ferret - this can cause organophosphide toxicity or death.
Know Your Enemy - An article about flea control

HOW DO I KNOW IF IT'S A BOY OR A GIRL?

Sexing ferrets is very simple. If you find what looks like a very obvious belly-button (this is the male part), it's a boy! Girls don't have one. And, mature unneutered males will have testicles.

DON'T FEMALE FERRETS DIE WHEN THEY GO INTO HEAT?

Jills do not come out of heat without being bred, or being chemically induced using a hormone injection administered by a veterinarian. A prolonged heat cycle will produce serious health problems in female ferrets, but since it is currently the law in Georgia to have a jill spayed, (& hob neutered) by 7
months of age, doing so will totally eliminate this threat to her life.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FERRETS?

Contact the GEORGIA FERRET ASSOCIATION, INC. (GFA). We will be happy to answer any questions you have. We can recommend veterinarians in your area who treat ferrets, ferret-sitting services, and provide "how-to" information on training and care. The GFA, through the generosity of some of its members, is able to provide foster homes for unwanted ferrets until they can be placed
in suitable homes with loving families.

5/98