Pet Ferrets and Their Diet

Ferrets are sometimes confused as rodents. Ferrets are actually mustelids - members of the weasel family and cousins to polecats, minks, otters, and badgers. This is a very important distinction as they are carnivorous as compared to plant eating rodents.

In the wild, ferrets will feed on a diet of rabbits, mice and other small rodents and sometimes insects. As carnivores, they need a diet high in protein and fat. A ferret food that contains around 38% meat protein and 15% fat is best. But not all proteins are the same. Meat protein differs chemically from vegetable protein which ferrets cannot digest well.

Some ferret owners prefer to feed fresh meat. Ferrets typically prefer chicken or rabbit over beef. Be certain to purchase raw meat from a known, quality source to be certain that it is free of any parasites, bacteria or toxins. Another option is mice, day old chicks or other live or freshly killed animals. These diets can be expensive, time consuming and cruel to the live prey.

The most popular option for a balance diet is a commercial Ferret Food . There are several quality varieties available. Just be sure to read the label to be certain it contains at least 35% protein from meat sources and 15% fat. And the fiber should be low, under 3%. For brief periods is alright to feed kitten food. But this is not a good long term diet as the protein and fat levels, as well as other ingredients are not suitably balanced for ferrets.

Ferrets are fond of sweets, such as fruits, but these should be fed only in tiny quantities on rare occasions if at all. Ferrets get their name from the Latin word for 'thief', due to their habit of hoarding small objects and food. So be sure that small treats have been consumed before offering more. It is possible for them to store enough to create a dietary imbalance or other health problems if eaten at one time. Besure to feed healthful Ferret Treats

Ferrets are very clever and curious. When out of their cages, they will go to great lengths to find food or other fun items. They can open cabinets and drawers and not only make a mess, but potentially get into dangerous items.

They will also try to open refrigerators. They may not be successful, but will tear up the rubber door seal. Ferrets are inquisitive, quick, agile and good climbers. They must be watched carefully to avoid closing them in a stove, dryer or refrigerator.

Be sure to ferret-proof your home and monitor them closely when you let them out of their cage. This is not only to prevent damage to your home but to keep your ferret safe.

As well as a diet of fresh meat or a The most popular option for a balance diet is a commercial Ferret Food , a vitamin and mineral supplement is recommended. Most commercial foods will have these added, but again, be sure to read the label. Supplements can help avoid adrenal ailments and bone deformities to which ferrets are susceptible.