How long do ferrets live?

Ferrets are the perfect pet for the right family. Lifespan and specific needs should be important criteria when choosing a new pet. Exotic and small pets have more requirements than traditional pets in order to live happy, healthy and long lives. Pet owners can make the most of the time they spend with their furry family member by working with their veterinary team and researching the species thoroughly before bringing it home. With the right care, ferrets can bring joy to families for many years.

Ferret Lifespan and Aging

Ferrets were probably domesticated from the European polecat and were initially used to hunt rodents. Domesticated ferrets are a different species from wild ferrets in the United States, the endangered black-footed ferret. Captive ferrets typically live 4-6 years, but wild ferrets may only live 1-3 years due to a lack of veterinary care, proper shelter, and regular balanced nutrition.

Female ferrets have 2-3 litters a year and reach adulthood at 6-7 months. Young ferrets are called kits and are considered adult at 1 year of age. In the United States, large companies and breeders breed ferrets, and they are usually spayed or neutered at 6 weeks of age.

There is only one breed of ferret: the standard ferret. A subset of ferrets with a genetic mutation have long hair and are called Angora ferrets, but they are the same species. Domesticated ferrets come in a variety of colors, with sable and albino being the most common. Other color and pattern variations include:

• black

• Black Sable

• Champagne

• chocolate

• Panda

• Black Eyes White

• Roan

• Color Point

• Siam

Generally, the more unusual or unique the color or pattern, the more likely the ferret is to have genetic problems that will make it sick and affect its lifespan. Color variations that create white areas on the head (such as panda patterns) can cause deafness at birth, and this condition is called Congenital Sensorineural Deafness (CSD): There is limited scientific data on this condition, and ferret breeders often refer to it as the human equivalent called Waardenburg syndrome.

Why do some ferrets live longer than others?

The healthiest ferrets usually have the most genetic diversity and are less inbreeded, but they still require proper home care, nutrition and veterinary care to live the healthiest lives.

A proper diet is essential to keeping your ferret healthy and extending their lifespan. Ferrets are carnivores and therefore require a high protein, low carbohydrate diet. Some cat diets will meet this requirement, but ferrets should be fed a special ferret diet formulated to meet their specific nutritional needs with the right vitamin and nutrient values.

Ferrets are naturally inquisitive animals and can easily get into tight spaces. They explore the world by using their mouths to chew and taste new things, so owners should always closely supervise their ferrets when they are out of their cage.

To prevent ferrets from getting into your home, remove any objects that could injure them, such as electrical cords, and ensure they do not fall from high places. Ferrets will steal or hide food, and eat things that are too big for their stomachs. As a result, common health problems in ferrets, especially young ones, include gastrointestinal blockages and trauma caused by food. Other diseases that ferrets are prone to, especially as they get older, include:

• Adrenal disorders

• Lymphoma

• Insulinoma

• Gastrointestinal problems

A healthy ferret is cheerful, alert, and inquisitive. Its coat is shiny and free of baldness and dandruff. There should be no discharge from the eyes or nose, and no lumps or swelling on the skin. Check with your ferret-savvy veterinarian regularly for any signs of illness.

How to Extend Your Ferret’s Lifespan

Ferrets are relatively easy to care for, but providing them with quality husbandry and veterinary care can help extend their lifespan while fostering a strong bond with your family. Here are some general recommendations to help extend your ferret’s lifespan:

• Regular veterinary check-ups, including blood tests

• Vaccinating your ferret against rabies and canine distemper

• Always supervise your ferret when outside its cage

• The cage should be at least 3 feet by 3 feet in size and have bars that are small enough that a ferret cannot get through.

• Provide environmental stimulation Toys, hammocks, ladders In a cage

• Allow 3-4 hours of supervised play outside the cage per day

• Feed your ferret a high protein diet Oxbow Ferret Hood

• Create a safe place in the cage where your pet can hide and feel comfortable

• Train your ferret toilet Clean the cage bedding frequently

• Use a preventative topical product to prevent flea and tick-borne diseases.

• dentifrice Monitor your teeth daily for painful gum disease

Featured Image: iStock.com/sestovic

References

Schoemaker DVM, PHD, Nico J. van Zeeland DVM, MVR, PhD, DECZM, YRA Merck Veterinary Manual. Ferret Overview2022.

Morrisey DVM, DABVP(Avian), Jamkes K. Merck Veterinary Manual. Ferret Overview2022.

Kiefer DVM, Kristina M. Johnson DVM, Dan. A Quick Reference Guide to a Unique Pet Breed: Pet Care for Ferrets. 2011.

Sandra Mitchell DVM, DABVP, Veterinary Partners. Ferret Care2021.

Pollock DVM, DABVP (Aviary Practice), Christal. Lafeber Vet. Fact Sheet – Ferrets2019.