Ferrets are energetic and inquisitive pets, known for their love of squeezing into tight spaces and investigating every nook and cranny. Unfortunately, this tendency can lead them to risky encounters with any number of items in your home. From cleaning supplies to small objects, ferrets are prone to nibbling on things they shouldn't, putting their health at risk.
Swallowing items like rubber bands, hair ties, or even small toys is not uncommon for ferrets and may lead to an emergency surgery with an exotic vet. As a ferret owner, you should be aware of these dangers and properly ferret-proof your living spaces to avoid unwanted, and costly, situations.
Ferret-Proofing Your Home:
Like you’d baby-proof your home in preparation for a visit from a toddler, you also need to ferret-proof your home by eliminating potential threats to your curious friend. Here are some helpful tips for keeping your ferret out of harm's way:
Remove Small Objects: Ferrets love stealing small items and taking them to their favorite hideaway. Keep things such as buttons, plastic bottle caps, soft rubber or silicone, and any other obvious choking hazards out of their reach.
Lock Away Cleaning Supplies: Ferrets are extremely curious and skilled at reaching areas where cleaners, chemicals, and medications are stored, all of which are toxic. Keep these items in secure, locked cabinets or areas inaccessible to your pets.
Hide Electrical Cords: Ferrets love nibbling! They may chew on electrical cords, posing a risk of electric shock. Use protective coverings or secure cords out of their reach.
Choose Safe Plants: Ferrets are diggers, so they see houseplants as perfect playgrounds. In addition to the mess this makes, some common houseplants can be toxic to ferrets if ingested. Ensure that any plants within their reach are safe for pets.
Here are just some of the common plants that are toxic to ferrets:
Aloe vera
Amaryllis
Begonia
Chrysanthemum
Cyclamen
Ivy
Sago Palm
Poinsettia
For a comprehensive list of common household items dangerous for ferrets, check out this guide.
Roaming-Free
It’s important to give your ferret plenty of supervised time to wander and play freely. This is crucial to their wellbeing because ferrets thrive on exploration, play and social interaction. Allowing them time outside their cages provides essential mental and physical stimulation, preventing boredom and promoting overall health.
Ferrets instinctually like to dig and burrow making it important to provide a safe environment that mimics their natural behaviors. Roaming time fulfills these instinctual needs and fosters a strong bond between ferrets and their owners. Create a ferret-proofed space and pay close attention during their roam-free time to help keep your furry friend happy and fit.
Importance of Regular Vet Check-ups:
Just like with humans, a little prevention goes a long way in ensuring your ferret has a healthy, long life. But because ferrets can’t complain when they’re feeling under the weather, this is even more important!
Regular check-ups are essential to monitoring your ferret’s health and catching potential issues early. A knowledgeable ferret vet can provide guidance on proper nutrition, behavior, and preventive care.
Want to learn more about how to give your ferret the best care?
Our professional veterinary team offers extensive advice in our ferret care guide.