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You’ve all seen and read about how great ferrets can be as pets. They’re small, they’re playful, and they have a ton of personality. But what you don’t often hear about are the reasons why ferrets make bad pets. Here are 6 reasons why you might want to think twice before getting a ferret as your newest furry friend.
Finding a veterinarian can be very difficult and expensive
Unlike dogs and cats, ferrets are not commonly seen by veterinarians, which can make finding someone who is qualified to care for your ferret difficult and expensive.
These specialty veterinarians (Exotic or Mixed practice veterinarians) can be difficult to find and may be located far from where you live.
They also tend to be more expensive than traditional veterinarians, since they often have to charge more for their services due to the lack of ferrets or other exotic pet owners.
If you live in a large bustling city, there is a good chance this might not be an issue for you. But if you live in a rural area, or even a small town, finding a qualified veterinarian who can care for your ferret may be difficult and expensive.
And it’s not like you can just roll a dice and hope your ferret never needs to see a veterinarian…ferrets are susceptible to a number of health problems, some of which require expensive treatment.
So if you’re thinking about getting a ferret, be sure to do your research and make sure you’re prepared to deal with the added expense of finding and paying for a qualified veterinarian.
Your ferret will live a shorter life than most traditional pets
The average lifespan of a ferret is 5-7 years, which is much shorter than the average lifespan of a dog (10-12 years) or cat (15-20 years).
So if you’re looking for a pet that you can bond with for many years to come, a ferret may not be the best choice.
While this usually isn’t a factor most people think of when choosing a pet, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering a ferret. A lifelong bond is hard to come by, and it’s even harder when your pet’s lifespan is cut short.
Ferrets get into everything, And that’s not always a good thing
Ferrets are curious creatures, and they like to explore their surroundings. They’re small and agile and can fit into some of the smallest holes you can think of.
This can lead to them getting into places they’re not supposed to be and getting into things they’re not supposed to get into.
While this might be amusing when your ferret is rummaging through the garbage can, it can be dangerous if your ferret gets into something poisonous or harmful.
Ferrets are also known for chewing on things, which can lead to them ingesting something they’re not supposed to eat. This can cause health problems, and in some cases, it can be fatal.
This goes around back to the veterinarian problem discussed above, But there are also additional concerns.
Ferrets can easily damage high-end equipment and electronics with their chewing, and if they happen to get into something dangerous it can be very costly to clean up the mess and repair the damage.
Ferret proofing is a must if you’re going to have a ferret as a pet, and even then there’s no guarantee your ferret won’t find a way to get into something they’re not supposed to.
Ferrets need a lot of love and attention
Unlike cold unfeeling cats (We joke, we love our adorable stuck-up purr machines) ferrets are very social creatures.
They need a lot of love and attention, and if they don’t get it they can become depressed or anxious.
This can lead to a number of health problems, and in some cases, it can shorten their lifespan.
Ferrets also like to play, and if they don’t have anything to play with they can become bored.
Bored ferrets can become destructive, and they may start chewing on things or getting into things they’re not supposed to.
So if you’re thinking about getting a ferret, be sure you’re prepared to give them the time and attention they need.
If you are the type whos always working, never home, and never has any free time, a ferret is probably not the pet for you.
Ferrets are very intelligent and need constant stimulation
Just finding time to cuddle your ferret isn’t enough. These highly intelligent creatures need constant stimulation, both mental and physical.
If they don’t get it they can become bored, and when ferrets get bored they can start to misbehave.
Constant stimulation in the form of new toys is a good start, But sometimes you find yourself needing to go the extra mile, Like setting up obstacle courses with their toys and tubes.
If you’re not prepared to put in the time and effort to keep your ferret entertained, a ferret is probably not the pet for you.
Ferrets can stink
Not a surprise but ferrets have a very distinct smell. This is due to their anal sacs, which produce a foul-smelling secretion.
This secretion is used to mark their territory, and it can be very strong.
Some people find the smell tolerable, but for others, it can be overwhelming.
If you’re sensitive to smells, or if you just don’t like the smell of ferrets, then a ferret is probably not the pet for you.
A ferret’s smell can be reduced through regular cleaning and bathing, and diet choices. but it’s important to keep in mind that even a clean ferret will still have a distinct smell.
Bottom line
We love ferrets, and we think they make good pets, But do you believe you would make a good ferret owner?
If you’re not prepared to deal with the potential problems mentioned above, then a ferret is probably not the pet for you.
Do your research and be sure you’re prepared for everything that comes with owning a ferret before making the decision to get one.
If you are willing to make the commitment, then we say go for it! Ferrets are amazing creatures and they can bring a lot of joy to your life.
But if you don’t think you can cut it, that’s okay. There are plenty of other great pets out there that might be a better fit for you. Don’t put a ferret in that position!
