May 5th is National Ferret Day! These cute little furballs are not difficult to care for, but they are a bit frisky, and can be a handful! In order to keep your ferret happy and healthy, you’ll need to let him out of his cage for at least a few hours each day. Before you do that, however, you’ll need to do some ferretproofing. A Cherry Hill, NJ vet offers tips on ferretproofing in this article.
Things Ferrets Eat
Like many pets, ferrets are rather opportunistic when it comes to chewing and eating things. Small items, such as craft kit pieces, pen caps, and even pencils can be very dangerous to these little ones. You’ll also want to keep chemicals and medicines securely out of your pet’s reach. Toys, stuffed animals, and anything made of soft wood or rubber should also be stored away.
Hiding Holes
Ferrets are masters at getting into small spaces. We recommend getting on your hands and knees and looking for any holes or spaces that could make a tempting burrow, then sealing them off. This includes cupboards, shelves, and fireplaces, and open spaces around air ducts, windows, and doors. Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are often danger zones, so pay extra attention to these areas.
Other Hazards
Don’t leave lamps, ornaments, or plant holders unsecured: it’s much too easy for ferrets to knock these things over onto themselves! Speakers and fans can also be very dangerous to ferrets. These rambunctious furballs also sometimes chew holes in upholstery to get into couches or mattresses. This can be quite dangerous! Staple tough fabric to the sides and bottoms of upholstered furniture, and always check your pet’s whereabouts before sitting down. Ferrets can also make their way into dressers and drawers, particularly with furniture pieces that have a gap at the bottom. Block off openings behind and beneath furniture. Secure wires and drape cords as well.
Red-Handed Furballs
As you may know, ferrets have a tendency to, well, steal things. Your sticky-fingered furball may snag and stash a variety of items, including keys, coins, phones, remote controls, and jewelry. Watch your furry pal closely, and find out where his hoard is. That way, the next time something goes missing, you’ll know where to look!
For more information about caring for ferrets, please contact us, your Cherry Hill, NJ animal clinic. We are here to help!
