Susan A. Brown

Article / Updated 04-28-2016

When choosing a ferret as a pet, it's very important to find a healthy and happy one to bring into your home. This list shows you things to look for when shopping for your new fuzzy family member: Fur is soft and shiny, and there are no patches of missing fur. Eyes are clear and bright. Eyes, ears, and nose free from any discharge. Underside of the ferret is clean and healthy looking and has no signs of diarrhea or bloating. The ferret is inquisitive when you approach and may be jumpy and playful. He does not cower orrun to a hiding place.

Article / Updated 04-28-2016

Whether you leave your ferret in the capable hands of a pet sitter or you use a boarding facility, this list explains the information you need to provide for your ferret’s caregiver: The phone number where you can be reached and the name of the people you’re staying with. An emergency phone number (or two) of someone close to home, such as a friend or relative. Your veterinarian’s phone number and address. The emergency clinic’s phone number and address. A supply of necessary medication and instructions on how to medicate your ferret. Written description of each ferret and each ferret’s personality (attach a photo next to each description to be extra helpful). A list of do’s and don’ts. An adequate supply of food. Written instructions on feeding. Instructions on how to clean up after your ferrets, supervise safe playtime, and watch for signs of illness or injury.

Article / Updated 04-28-2016

Good ferret breeders should be pleasant, honest, and direct with you about the responsibilities of having a ferret as a pet. They don’t want to give their ferrets to just anybody. As you research ferret breeders, use this list as a guide for finding a good breeder: Try to get references from people who’ve bought kits from the breeder, and be sure to check those references. If a breeder won’t give you references, beware. If geographically feasible, travel to see the breeder’s facility to get a sense of how the ferrets are kept. Also, you don’t want to buy a ferret sight unseen! Ask the breeder about his motivation for breeding ferrets. A good breeder might say that he or she is breeding ferrets to improve the species' temperament and health. Ask the breeder about vaccination and vet schedules and any illnesses he has encountered with the ferret. Make sure, if you purchase a kit, that you get a written health guarantee from the breeder. An adoption (or purchase) contract should be available for you to see ahead of time. A good breeder will offer after-sales support. Ask if the breeder is willing to chat with you when you call with a question regarding your newly purchased baby. Ask about what happens if the ferret doesn’t work out for you. Will the breeder take the ferret back? A responsible breeder will do this.

Article / Updated 04-28-2016

It’s essential to keep a first-aid kit handy that is made especially for your ferret. Be ready for any ferret emergency by including all of the following things in your ferret first-aid kit — and don’t forget to replace used items: Adhesive bandage tape Ferretone/Linatone Pediatric Liquid Benadryl Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin) Gauze pads Pen light Baby wipes Gauze wrap Petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) Bene-Bac Hairball preventative (Petromalt or Laxatone) Pill crusher Betadine solution Health records Rabies certificates Can of prescription feline A/D Heating pad Rectal thermometer Can of strawberry or vanilla Ensure Hydrogen peroxide Rubber or latex gloves Canola or olive oil Ice pack Scissors Chemical heating pack (portable heat for the young or sick ferret) Immodium liquid Small plastic atomizer Chicken or lamb baby food Kaopectate or Pepto Bismol Styptic powder or bee’s wax Cotton balls and cotton swabs Light Karo syrup or NutriCal Tongue depressors Desitin List of any medications your ferret is currently taking Tweezers Ear cleanser Nail clippers Washcloths Eye wash/rinse Pedialyte or Gatorade