So you have decided to have a ferret as a pet. This is not an unusual decision as ferrets make great pets and a lot of owners can attest to this. Pets have been domesticated for the past 2000 years after all, and were introduced to the North Americas as pets as long as 300 years ago. They can be trained just like cats and dogs and make for great and joyous companions for the right kind of household and family.
Like any other pets ferrets require the same kind of attention like exercise, proper social training - just like cats they can be taught to use the litter tray - and veterinary care.
Some jurisdictions do not allow ferrets to be kept as pets as in the case of New Zealand. The argument against ferrets held by such jurisdictions lies in the fact that ferrets do have fairly sharp teeth. But this is something that can easily be circumvented using proper training. Indeed ferrets can nip, but only in self defence if, for example, they are cornered. This is just a natural survival instinct that all animals and even humans have in circumstances where a threat is sensed.
Ferrets are like small children, very playful and exuberant so if you have both it is a good idea to closely supervise them when in close contact, but this goes without saying even if they are in contact with any other pets. For older children ferrets do, in fact, make really great pets!
Here are also some interesting and useful facts you should take into account should you decide on a ferret as your pet:
Ferrets are great sleepers and can sleep for 18 hours a day. But they will most likely be wakeful at the times you are used to feed them or interact with them.
They can be found napping in places you would least expect, so check very carefully behind that cushion before you sit down in front of the tv or to read a book.
As mentioned they are very jolly pets to have and will play with another ferret (if you bought more than one) without much supervision amusing themselves and you.
Their lifespan is typically 6 to 8 years and sometime up to 12 years. With the right care (see end of article) there is no reason why their typical lifespan can't be extended even more.
They are kind of blind but make up for it by having a strong sense of smell and hearing.
They belong to the weasel family and are related to mink, skunks, otters and badgers. But be aware they are the only member of this family (also known as Mustilidae) that are possible to keep and be domesticated.
Ferrets make for the ideal pet if you are looking for an alternative to having a dog or a cat. Like them they can easily be domesticated to become a member of your extended family. And unlike cats and dogs, you will not have to worry about annoying your neighbours with loud dog barks or their garden (and yours) being used as a toilet.
Graham Grant keeps a blog detailing the best information for anyone who keeps or would consider in keeping a Ferret as a pet.
To Learn more as well as learning how to double your ferret life expectancy visit: All About Ferrets