MAIN Home Life Pets Ferrets

Cute, smart and full of mischief, ferrets have been domesticated for centuries as a control against rats and mice, and were used for rodent hunting on ships sailing to colonial America in the 17th century.

Today, ferrets have grown tremendously in popularity as a domestic house with their ease of care only matched by their owners' sheer enjoyment in watching them play.

Granted, they can become overly energetic and rambunctious, but can usually be calmed with gentle discipline.

To fuel their rampant energy, ferrets require a high-protein diet that is low in ash and magnesium, which can usually be found in quality dry cat foods. Like cats, ferrets can be trained to use a litter box, be given toys to swat around, and are usually found climbing up on or sneaking into every nook and cranny in the house.

Like dogs, they are susceptible to canine distemper, rabies and heartworms, for which they should receive vaccinations from a qualified, ferret-friendly veterinarian. And don't forget to cover your mouth when you sneeze — since ferrets can also catch the common cold and flu from their human owners!

Elsewhere on the Web, discover more about pet ferrets at top sites offering tips & advice on their care and feeding, how to's on training, health tips, a collection of ferret fun facts, and more historical notes on Ferrets Through The Ages ...

More information about ferrets around the Web:

Ferret Central - Like it says, with a great collection of frequently asked questions about choosing a ferret, their care and feeding, behavior and house training, with an extensive list of related links to more information.

American Ferret Association - Check out information resources including information on required vaccines and other ferret medical issues, rescue stories, championship shows, ferret related events, plus a searchable database of ferret veterinarians in the U.S. and worldwide.

Anatomy, Behavior and Diseases in Ferrets - One-stop browsing for facts & information on known ailments, causes and treatment, when to contact a veterinarian, plus basic care, feeding and nutrition.

Ferrets in Art History - Fascinating look at the little critters dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries when they were prized as rabbit hunters, pets, and high fashion accessory.

also see in Travel -> Traveling with Pets