A Business of Ferrets

Donnie Darilek

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Many choose ferrets as pets because of their unending energy, and playful antics, And, they don't require constant attention. However, domesticated ferrets, descendents of the European polecat, Mustela putorius, really need daily interaction from humans or other animals. Socializing ferrets on leads to happier pets.

Ferrets bite and play rough with their siblings. Their skin is tougher than ours, so we need to start teaching them at a very young age not to nip people. It is possible to teach a ferret that is treated well and trust its environment through play and exposure, that there are rules to human interaction.

Ferrets need to be handled at a very young age. Touch their faces and teeth so will get used to being handled, and gently tug their claws so they will allow you to trim nails later on. Wash their faces with a warm, damp rag every day. Some ferrets even enjoy being bathed, if they are taught young.

Nipping decreases, in most ferrets, when they mature at about 6 months. Before that, they bite a lot and humans often get in the way. Discourage biting with a his, as the their mother does when she gets annoyed. You can also pick them up by the scruff and say"NO" in a firm voice. The intent is to get their attention without hurting them You are just letting the ferret know that its behavior is unwanted.

Give ferrets toys they can bite and be rough with. When you play with your ferret, sit on the floor and let them choose how to plat with you. Do not allow them to nip you.Be patient with kits between 10 and 16 weeks, their "teen years" They may get rebellious and/or pushing every limit you set

Some basic training tips: (By Bob Church, a zooarchaeologist who specializes in ferrets)

Choose a safe play area fro running, hiding,jumping and climbing
Always allow the ferret to explore its surroundings first.
Get down on the floor and throw or dangle ferret-safe toys.
Hug,cuddle and carry the ferret around as much as possible.
Put the ferret down if it starts squirming.
Reward good behavior with Ferretone or chicken/turkey baby food on the end of a spoon.
Have patience. Forgive nips, but gently scold bites. A smart ferret will learn.