Ferret Care
Food
The food you choose to feed your ferret could mean the difference between serious illness or a healthy adulthood. Here at Navarre Ferret Rescue we continue to read the latest research, much
conducted by Bob Church, and strive to stay on top of the best feeding practices.
Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning they naturally only eat meats. The black-footed ferret's diet consists almost entirely of praire dogs. They were nearly pushed to extinction due to this. For centuries domesticated ferrets were fed animal kills. It is only in recent times that kibble has replaced their natural diet style.
Feeding kibbles has three main issues, carbohydrates, teeth wear, dehydration. Most kibble on the market for ferrets are high in carbohydrates. Current research is showing these levels of carbohydrates to be linked to the onset of insulinoma, which is common in many domestic ferrets, but highly unusual in wild populations of their relatives. To help avoid this issue, seek out several kibbles that are grain-free and have meat-based proteins. We won't buy kibble unless it has at a minimum 40% protein (again, watch for meat-based ingredients) and 18% fat. It also needs to contain taurine.
The second issue is with teeth wear and is currently unavoidable when feeding kibble. Ferrets have teeth designed to scissor cut off chunks, not to grind. They also have a much thinner dentin layer than other domesticated animals, like dogs. Kibbles wear down their teeth in an unnatural way that can lead to tooth problems and possible digestive problems related to dental problems.
The third issue is dehydration. Ferrets naturally receive most of their liquids from the food they eat. However, kibbles are dry. This means a ferret must continually try to rehydrate the body after eating in addition to trying to get the hydration they need for their own body's natural uses beyond hydrating food for digestion. Problems impacting hydrations, such a diarrhea, can have a negative impact of the ferret's health faster and in a more profound way when fed a kibble based diet since their body is already having to fight against dehydration.
We understand that not everyone will be willing or able to feed their ferrets a balanced raw diet, especially for those who adopt older ferrets that have imprinted on their food, but if kibble is a must these are what we currently feed. Please keep in mind that it is always better to mix multiple kibbles together to avoid having your ferret imprint on one particular kibble and refuse to eat when the store is out or the formula is changed. #1 Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 or Wysong Ferret Digestive Support (fully starch free), Instincts Ultimate Protein, Stella & Chewy's (Cat Dinner Morsels).
However, the better diet, when possible, is a balanced raw. There are many ways to do this. We buy grinds containing muscle meat, organs, heart, and bones from Hare Today, Gone Tomorrow. Locally there are several stores that sell Nature's Variety Instinct Frozen, which we used
until we discovered Hare Today. For good teeth health we supplement with three meals a week of either raw chicken wings, gizzards, or whole prey. If you don't want to buy commercial, you can shop in grocery stores. It is very important to provide a proper balance though. Holistic Ferret Forum has some wonderful threads about feeding raw, including links to many of the research projects I have mentioned. They also offer a mentoring program to help walk you through the process and troubleshoot any stubborness your ferret may offer. The older they are, the harder the switch can be.
The food you choose to feed your ferret could mean the difference between serious illness or a healthy adulthood. Here at Navarre Ferret Rescue we continue to read the latest research, much
conducted by Bob Church, and strive to stay on top of the best feeding practices.
Ferrets are obligate carnivores, meaning they naturally only eat meats. The black-footed ferret's diet consists almost entirely of praire dogs. They were nearly pushed to extinction due to this. For centuries domesticated ferrets were fed animal kills. It is only in recent times that kibble has replaced their natural diet style.
Feeding kibbles has three main issues, carbohydrates, teeth wear, dehydration. Most kibble on the market for ferrets are high in carbohydrates. Current research is showing these levels of carbohydrates to be linked to the onset of insulinoma, which is common in many domestic ferrets, but highly unusual in wild populations of their relatives. To help avoid this issue, seek out several kibbles that are grain-free and have meat-based proteins. We won't buy kibble unless it has at a minimum 40% protein (again, watch for meat-based ingredients) and 18% fat. It also needs to contain taurine.
The second issue is with teeth wear and is currently unavoidable when feeding kibble. Ferrets have teeth designed to scissor cut off chunks, not to grind. They also have a much thinner dentin layer than other domesticated animals, like dogs. Kibbles wear down their teeth in an unnatural way that can lead to tooth problems and possible digestive problems related to dental problems.
The third issue is dehydration. Ferrets naturally receive most of their liquids from the food they eat. However, kibbles are dry. This means a ferret must continually try to rehydrate the body after eating in addition to trying to get the hydration they need for their own body's natural uses beyond hydrating food for digestion. Problems impacting hydrations, such a diarrhea, can have a negative impact of the ferret's health faster and in a more profound way when fed a kibble based diet since their body is already having to fight against dehydration.
We understand that not everyone will be willing or able to feed their ferrets a balanced raw diet, especially for those who adopt older ferrets that have imprinted on their food, but if kibble is a must these are what we currently feed. Please keep in mind that it is always better to mix multiple kibbles together to avoid having your ferret imprint on one particular kibble and refuse to eat when the store is out or the formula is changed. #1 Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 or Wysong Ferret Digestive Support (fully starch free), Instincts Ultimate Protein, Stella & Chewy's (Cat Dinner Morsels).
However, the better diet, when possible, is a balanced raw. There are many ways to do this. We buy grinds containing muscle meat, organs, heart, and bones from Hare Today, Gone Tomorrow. Locally there are several stores that sell Nature's Variety Instinct Frozen, which we used
until we discovered Hare Today. For good teeth health we supplement with three meals a week of either raw chicken wings, gizzards, or whole prey. If you don't want to buy commercial, you can shop in grocery stores. It is very important to provide a proper balance though. Holistic Ferret Forum has some wonderful threads about feeding raw, including links to many of the research projects I have mentioned. They also offer a mentoring program to help walk you through the process and troubleshoot any stubborness your ferret may offer. The older they are, the harder the switch can be.
Cages
What cage to choose for your ferret can make a big difference in their happiness and yours. We have seen many, seemingly roomy cages, end with ferrets showing cage rage. These same ferrets stopped biting the bars and shaking the cage when moved to a Ferret Nation cage. At the rescue, we use only Ferret Nation cages. They are ferret friendly, providing lots of useful space. They are versatile in that we can use one level as a single cage or let the ladder down and have both levels open. For the home, this provides a hospital area to isolate a ferret. These are also very easy cages to clean. Since the entire front opens, pulling litter boxes is much easier than most other cage designs. The trays and shelves are easy to remove for cleaning. Crafty Weasles and Little Feet Ferret Bedding are two online groups that specialize in making decorative bedding for Ferret Nation cages. Their sets include tray covers, hammocks, cubes, sleep sacks, etc..
What cage to choose for your ferret can make a big difference in their happiness and yours. We have seen many, seemingly roomy cages, end with ferrets showing cage rage. These same ferrets stopped biting the bars and shaking the cage when moved to a Ferret Nation cage. At the rescue, we use only Ferret Nation cages. They are ferret friendly, providing lots of useful space. They are versatile in that we can use one level as a single cage or let the ladder down and have both levels open. For the home, this provides a hospital area to isolate a ferret. These are also very easy cages to clean. Since the entire front opens, pulling litter boxes is much easier than most other cage designs. The trays and shelves are easy to remove for cleaning. Crafty Weasles and Little Feet Ferret Bedding are two online groups that specialize in making decorative bedding for Ferret Nation cages. Their sets include tray covers, hammocks, cubes, sleep sacks, etc..
Bedding
Using the proper bedding is important for your ferret's health and to keep the environment clean. Wood shavings should never be used. Fleece is the material of choice. It is very durable and doesn't have little treads to get caught on toes and nails. We use a lot of baby blankets, hammocks, tubes, small animal beds, and such. There are a few nice hammocks sold in chain stores, but for a larger variety look to sources like Crafty Weasels and Little Feet Ferrets. No only do they sell great bedding and shelf covers, but both also support rescues. Our first introduction to Crafty Weasels was a box delivered to us full of extra large hammocks, cat carrier hammocks, and other wonderful things. While this type of bedding is wonderful, it is important to remember to wash it each week. Before washing it's best to vacuum both sides of all bedding. Ferrets have naturally oily skin and fresh beddings allows them to rub some of those oils off. We use Borax or Arm & Hammer Laundry Booster in addition to using Arm & Hammer OxiClean, Bleach, and a small amount fabric softener. For the dryer we use wool dryer balls and not dryer sheets. To-date we have not had allergy problems with it, but stop using it if your ferrets starts to sneeze or show other signs of irritation.
Using the proper bedding is important for your ferret's health and to keep the environment clean. Wood shavings should never be used. Fleece is the material of choice. It is very durable and doesn't have little treads to get caught on toes and nails. We use a lot of baby blankets, hammocks, tubes, small animal beds, and such. There are a few nice hammocks sold in chain stores, but for a larger variety look to sources like Crafty Weasels and Little Feet Ferrets. No only do they sell great bedding and shelf covers, but both also support rescues. Our first introduction to Crafty Weasels was a box delivered to us full of extra large hammocks, cat carrier hammocks, and other wonderful things. While this type of bedding is wonderful, it is important to remember to wash it each week. Before washing it's best to vacuum both sides of all bedding. Ferrets have naturally oily skin and fresh beddings allows them to rub some of those oils off. We use Borax or Arm & Hammer Laundry Booster in addition to using Arm & Hammer OxiClean, Bleach, and a small amount fabric softener. For the dryer we use wool dryer balls and not dryer sheets. To-date we have not had allergy problems with it, but stop using it if your ferrets starts to sneeze or show other signs of irritation.
Teeth
Proper tooth care in pet ferrets is another common question we get. The answer is closely tied to diet, but involves many
variables. Unlike humans, ferret saliva does not have the enzymes to start breaking down carbohydrates, but acts more like a lubricant to help with swallowing. As a rule of thumb, ferrets do not get cavities. They can form plaque and tarter. To prevent this and periodontal disease, they need mechanical removal of the plaque. Whole prey acts like a toothbrush for carnivores and cleans the teeth from the crown to below the gumline. Kibble cannot do this, which is the main contributing factor to a 90-95% periodontal disease rate in pet ferrets, cats, and dogs. Kibble breaks up on the chisel part of ferret teeth, leaving the sides and below the gum lines virtually untouched. Prey fluids don’t' stick to the teeth, but wet kibble particles stick in ferrets mouths and form a sludge that helps form plaque. Ferrets on liquid diets and soft diets have the same problem. If feeding kibble, dental cleanings and/or tooth brushings are needed. For dietary care of ferret teeth, whole prey is best, balanced raw with bone-in chicken wings and such is second best, and kibble falls to last place. Here at Navarre Ferret Rescue we strive to switch as many ferrets as possible to a balanced raw diet, but some stay on kibble. For those on raw, we do use commercially bought grinds that include muscle meat, organs, heart, and bone. Additionally we offer three or four meals of raw, bone-in chicken wings or gizzards to keep teeth in good condition. We have had ferrets come in that were already developing periodontal disease and were able to reverse the progression by switching them to this diet. Included in the proteins we purchase is rabbit. Specifically we buy ground rabbit that includes the fur. It is like little bits of floss and does a great job cleaning out their gut. When possible we also like to provide the meats and organs as chunks instead of grinds, but time often is in short supply.
Proper tooth care in pet ferrets is another common question we get. The answer is closely tied to diet, but involves many
variables. Unlike humans, ferret saliva does not have the enzymes to start breaking down carbohydrates, but acts more like a lubricant to help with swallowing. As a rule of thumb, ferrets do not get cavities. They can form plaque and tarter. To prevent this and periodontal disease, they need mechanical removal of the plaque. Whole prey acts like a toothbrush for carnivores and cleans the teeth from the crown to below the gumline. Kibble cannot do this, which is the main contributing factor to a 90-95% periodontal disease rate in pet ferrets, cats, and dogs. Kibble breaks up on the chisel part of ferret teeth, leaving the sides and below the gum lines virtually untouched. Prey fluids don’t' stick to the teeth, but wet kibble particles stick in ferrets mouths and form a sludge that helps form plaque. Ferrets on liquid diets and soft diets have the same problem. If feeding kibble, dental cleanings and/or tooth brushings are needed. For dietary care of ferret teeth, whole prey is best, balanced raw with bone-in chicken wings and such is second best, and kibble falls to last place. Here at Navarre Ferret Rescue we strive to switch as many ferrets as possible to a balanced raw diet, but some stay on kibble. For those on raw, we do use commercially bought grinds that include muscle meat, organs, heart, and bone. Additionally we offer three or four meals of raw, bone-in chicken wings or gizzards to keep teeth in good condition. We have had ferrets come in that were already developing periodontal disease and were able to reverse the progression by switching them to this diet. Included in the proteins we purchase is rabbit. Specifically we buy ground rabbit that includes the fur. It is like little bits of floss and does a great job cleaning out their gut. When possible we also like to provide the meats and organs as chunks instead of grinds, but time often is in short supply.
Heartworms
Many owners are never told that their ferrets can get heartworms, let alone how deadly the worms can be. One mosquito that gets into your house, bites your ferret, and infects it with heartworm can lead to death. A single worm has been known to clog the heart and cause death in ferrets. The saddest thing is how easy it is to prevent heartworms. We use a specific form of diluted ivermectin to treat the ferrets at the rescue. A ferret knowledgeable vet can provide ferret owners with the correct mixture. Once a month the ferret is weighed and given the medication orally based on his/her weight. There is a bonus to treating heartworms. This also treats mites. We also use Revolution for puppies/kittens prescribed from your vet (also used for heartworm and ear mite prevention) Keep your loved one safe and heartworm free.
Many owners are never told that their ferrets can get heartworms, let alone how deadly the worms can be. One mosquito that gets into your house, bites your ferret, and infects it with heartworm can lead to death. A single worm has been known to clog the heart and cause death in ferrets. The saddest thing is how easy it is to prevent heartworms. We use a specific form of diluted ivermectin to treat the ferrets at the rescue. A ferret knowledgeable vet can provide ferret owners with the correct mixture. Once a month the ferret is weighed and given the medication orally based on his/her weight. There is a bonus to treating heartworms. This also treats mites. We also use Revolution for puppies/kittens prescribed from your vet (also used for heartworm and ear mite prevention) Keep your loved one safe and heartworm free.
Vaccines
Florida law requires ferrets to receive regular rabies vaccines, just like dogs and cats do. Additionally, we recommend each ferret to have a distemper vaccine as an adult. While not required by law, dog distemper is nearly 100% fatal to ferrets and highly contagious. It is possible for an infected animal to wander in your yard at night and then you end up bringing in the virus on your shoes. However, we caution that you ensure which distemper vaccine the vet intends to use. Some, especially those containing a bacteria component, can cause an adverse reaction in ferrets. Remember, just because a vet will see your ferret, doesn't mean that they are exotic certified or very familiar with ferrets.
Florida law requires ferrets to receive regular rabies vaccines, just like dogs and cats do. Additionally, we recommend each ferret to have a distemper vaccine as an adult. While not required by law, dog distemper is nearly 100% fatal to ferrets and highly contagious. It is possible for an infected animal to wander in your yard at night and then you end up bringing in the virus on your shoes. However, we caution that you ensure which distemper vaccine the vet intends to use. Some, especially those containing a bacteria component, can cause an adverse reaction in ferrets. Remember, just because a vet will see your ferret, doesn't mean that they are exotic certified or very familiar with ferrets.
St. Francis Veterinary Center
Dr. Dyson at St. Francis Vet Center in Navarre, Fl is the official vet for Navarre Ferret Rescue. She is well versed in many exotics and has the equipment needed to care for them, including surgically. We highly recommend taking your ferret(s) to her for annual and other care needs.
Address: 1856 Cotton Bay Ln, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: (850) 936-4446
Dr. Dyson at St. Francis Vet Center in Navarre, Fl is the official vet for Navarre Ferret Rescue. She is well versed in many exotics and has the equipment needed to care for them, including surgically. We highly recommend taking your ferret(s) to her for annual and other care needs.
Address: 1856 Cotton Bay Ln, Navarre, FL 32566
Phone: (850) 936-4446
Blockage
Blockages are caused by something blocking the digestive track of a ferret. A sudden loss of appetite, diarrhea, no poop, or bloody poop, grinding of teeth or other show of pain are symptoms to be taken serious. A blockage can kill within 48-72 hours. Do not wait and see, call a vet if you suspect a blockage.
Blockages are caused by something blocking the digestive track of a ferret. A sudden loss of appetite, diarrhea, no poop, or bloody poop, grinding of teeth or other show of pain are symptoms to be taken serious. A blockage can kill within 48-72 hours. Do not wait and see, call a vet if you suspect a blockage.
Adrenal Disease
Adrenal disease is the most common disease in ferrets. The exact cause if not understood, but is believed to involve early spay/neuters and too much artificial light. Some of the more common signs are hair loss (usually starts at the based of the tail), increased aggression, swollen vulva, increased scratching, excessive drinking and urination, anemia, weight loss, and in long-standing cases, difficulty in using the hind legs. In the case of adrenal disease, these symptoms stem from lesions on the adrenal gland.
Treatment options include a deslorin/ super Lupron implant or monthly Lupron injections paired with a ferretonin (melatonin) implant. The first two will help with the symptoms of the lesions, while the ferretonin will help regrow the hair. Some vets will opt to remove part of the adrenal gland, but this is not always successful or an option for all ferrets. With proper medical care, the symptoms of the disease can be managed for some time and allow the ferret a happy life.
Adrenal disease is the most common disease in ferrets. The exact cause if not understood, but is believed to involve early spay/neuters and too much artificial light. Some of the more common signs are hair loss (usually starts at the based of the tail), increased aggression, swollen vulva, increased scratching, excessive drinking and urination, anemia, weight loss, and in long-standing cases, difficulty in using the hind legs. In the case of adrenal disease, these symptoms stem from lesions on the adrenal gland.
Treatment options include a deslorin/ super Lupron implant or monthly Lupron injections paired with a ferretonin (melatonin) implant. The first two will help with the symptoms of the lesions, while the ferretonin will help regrow the hair. Some vets will opt to remove part of the adrenal gland, but this is not always successful or an option for all ferrets. With proper medical care, the symptoms of the disease can be managed for some time and allow the ferret a happy life.
Insulinoma
Insulinoma is a collection of tiny tumors in the pancreas. Essentially, the cells that control insulin production keep growing and over-produce insulin. With too much insulin the ferret becomes hyperglycemic. Unfortunately, many ferrets can mask the problem. This is why it is recommended that each ferret have a fasting blood glucose check during the yearly exam starting at the age of three. If symptom show, they often can be seen as rear leg weakness (also a common sign for other illnesses), tiredness, drooling, pawing at the mouth, weight loss that can't be explained by a seasonal change, seizures (including staring seizures), and vomiting.
Screening of healthy ferrets is done via a fasting glucose. The generally accepted number is 70mg/dl. If a ferret's BG is lower than that, Insulinoma is to be highly suspect. However, your vet may wish to run additional tests to rule out other possible causes.
Although Insulinoma is not currently curable and is usually eventually fatal, the symptoms can be treated to allow the ferret a good quality of life for some time. The most common medical treatment is prednisolone. Sometimes Diazoxide is added for hard to control cases, but has more potential side effects than prednisolone. It is also important to remember nutritional therapy at the same time. Ferrets are obligate carnivores and feeding according to this is especially important in an insulinomic ferret. Please read the above information regarding ferret diets and a balance raw diet. It is best to feed a soopie to your ferrets on a weekly basis before any signs of Insulinoma. You can make your own or you can purchase some we also add a bit of carnivore care (which you should keep on hand for emergencies as well as after surgery, etc). Feeding a soopie mix with carnivore care at every medication time helps to ensure your ferret has "food" on it's stomach as the prednisolone is hard on their system.
There are many different factors to consider when treating an insulinomic ferret. Our best advise is to find a ferret knowledgeable vet to work with. Talk with the vet about their experience treating Insulinoma in ferrets and what they suggestion for your options. Also, discuss emergency first aid methods that can be used in the home incase the ferret goes into a seizure.
Insulinoma is a collection of tiny tumors in the pancreas. Essentially, the cells that control insulin production keep growing and over-produce insulin. With too much insulin the ferret becomes hyperglycemic. Unfortunately, many ferrets can mask the problem. This is why it is recommended that each ferret have a fasting blood glucose check during the yearly exam starting at the age of three. If symptom show, they often can be seen as rear leg weakness (also a common sign for other illnesses), tiredness, drooling, pawing at the mouth, weight loss that can't be explained by a seasonal change, seizures (including staring seizures), and vomiting.
Screening of healthy ferrets is done via a fasting glucose. The generally accepted number is 70mg/dl. If a ferret's BG is lower than that, Insulinoma is to be highly suspect. However, your vet may wish to run additional tests to rule out other possible causes.
Although Insulinoma is not currently curable and is usually eventually fatal, the symptoms can be treated to allow the ferret a good quality of life for some time. The most common medical treatment is prednisolone. Sometimes Diazoxide is added for hard to control cases, but has more potential side effects than prednisolone. It is also important to remember nutritional therapy at the same time. Ferrets are obligate carnivores and feeding according to this is especially important in an insulinomic ferret. Please read the above information regarding ferret diets and a balance raw diet. It is best to feed a soopie to your ferrets on a weekly basis before any signs of Insulinoma. You can make your own or you can purchase some we also add a bit of carnivore care (which you should keep on hand for emergencies as well as after surgery, etc). Feeding a soopie mix with carnivore care at every medication time helps to ensure your ferret has "food" on it's stomach as the prednisolone is hard on their system.
There are many different factors to consider when treating an insulinomic ferret. Our best advise is to find a ferret knowledgeable vet to work with. Talk with the vet about their experience treating Insulinoma in ferrets and what they suggestion for your options. Also, discuss emergency first aid methods that can be used in the home incase the ferret goes into a seizure.