Azraele
Elite Member
They don't. They're high maintenance animals. Ideally, they need large cages (200$) and at least a couple hours playtime outside the cage daily. When they are outside the cage, you have to make sure that the area where they play is 100% ferret-proofed. These creatures WILL get into trouble when there's trouble to be found.
Ferrets are nippy unless trained otherwise, much like a puppy has to be trained not to bite when it is young.
They are smelly, although frequent bedding washes and changes (do not use anything like pine litter, it can cause respiratory problems, old towels and tee-shirts work well)) helps keep down the smell. You can also buy dry powder shampoo that makes them smell nice. Males smell more than the females, and unaltered ferrets can be quite rank.
Because of poor breeding, these guys are also prone to cancer. They live from 6-10 years on average.
As for shots, distemper is one to watch out for. Distemper is 100% (or nearly so) lethal in ferrets, however, some ferrets have had adverse allergic reactions to the vaccine. It's recommended you keep a close eye on the little one after that vaccine (or any for that matter) to make sure everything's ok.
Ferrets can be one of the most lovable, comical pets a person can own. They are illegal in some areas, so check local and state laws before purchasing one. You can also get them at shelters if you're looking to rescue one and give it a good, loving home.
