Ferrets

A female ferret is called a jill, the male is a hob, and the babies are called kits. The ferret has been domesticated for over 2000 years. It was originally used for pest control and hunting in Europe. They are members of the weasel family (Mustelidae), which includes skunks, otters, mink, weasels, and badgers. Ferrets are generally good-natured, inquisitive, playful animals that enjoy the company of humans. They are sometimes called 'pole cats'.

Ferret coats have several different color patterns. The fitch or sable ferret is the most popular. Fitch ferrets have a buff-colored coat with black markings on the face, feet, and tails. Albino ferrets are white with pink eyes. Some ferrets have a buff coat with light markings. Other types and color variations include the silver mitt, Siamese, cinnamon, panda, black-eyed white, blaze, and butterscotch.

The length of pregnancy is about 42 days. Like puppies and kittens, kits are born deaf and with their eyes closed. They begin walking by about 3 weeks of age, which is also when their eyes and ears open and start working. By about 6 weeks of age, they can be weaned onto ferret food. The average life span is 5-8 years; ferrets are considered geriatric pets at 3 – 4 years of age.

The anal glands of ferrets secrete a foul-smelling, musky liquid. De-scented ferrets (which have had these sacs removed) make more aesthetically appealing pets. Even after de-scenting, ferrets still have a slightly musky odor. You can routinely bathe your ferret weekly or every other week, using a gentle moisturizing shampoo as recommended by your veterinarian.