Ferrets are playful, entertaining, and oh-so-adorable, but knowing what your ferret does and why it behaves that way is a good way to keep both yourself and your little critter safe. So what are the basics of ferret behavior?
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Sleeping: Probably the first thing any ferret owner discovers is the fact that ferrets sleep a lot and by a lot, we mean up to 20 hours a day! Believe it or not this behavior is 100% natural. In the wild ferrets will only awake to hunt and eat- and once they're finished they will go back to sleep once again. This behavior is shared with domesticated ferrets who awake a few times a day- for one or two hours, just to play and eat.
Hunting Instincts: Ferrets are hunters by nature and it's completely instinctual for them to chase down another smaller (and sometimes even larger) animal and kill it. That's why it's especially important to keep fellow pets such as birds, rats, mice, gerbils, guinea pigs, and rabbits away from pet ferrets. On the other hand- it is a good thing to inspire your little fur ball to hunt. Play with chase toys where you can drag them across the floor and let your ferret attempt to 'kill' them. It's a great way to promote healthy natural behavior!
Playing: Although many people think hunting instincts and playing are the same thing, they are actually vastly different aspects of a ferret's behavior. Although they do consider hunting fun, it is done with 'intent'. Play, on the other hand, is usually between two or more ferrets or a ferret and their owner. It's a loving, bonding activity that can enhance your relationship with your ferret. You can play by wrestling, playing tag, and make fun activities that make your ferret 'chitter' in delight.
Bathroom Behavior: Unlike many animals, ferrets are extremely sanitary- and when using the bathroom they literally 'use a bathroom'. Typically they try to find a corner area with soft ground. This is why a corner litter box is extremely important in a ferret's cage. Instinctively they will go to the bathroom there.
Eating: Ferrets are eaters! When they're hungry, they'll eat, and when not, they won't! So they're pretty easy to feed. Supply fresh dry ferret food 24/7 for your ferret to munch on, and supplement with fresh meats 2 to 3 times a day. Get your ferret in the habit of eating a small meal the same time as you. Give them a bit of chicken, red meat, or fish to munch on as you eat your food. It's a great way to induce a healthy diet.
Bathing: In the wild ferrets would be in and out of the water quite habitually, hunting and adventuring. But indoors that opportunity to climb in and out of streams is not evident. So instead give your ferret the opportunity to 'play in water' once or twice a week. Not only will this keep your little critter from getting smelly, but it will promote healthy oils from your ferrets skin- that help coat the fur and keep it healthy and shiny.
Spraying: Spraying or a ferrets smelly way of marking their territory is a common trait among ferrets that are not descented or spayed/neutered. Although we are not the biggest fan of descenting- we do suggest you spay or neuter your pet- especially if you are keeping more than one ferret. Spraying is completely natural- but yes, messy and smelly. If you want to prevent such actions you can descent your ferret which can ultimately prevent the strong odor.
