Emma Jones
Ferrets have a very distinctive smell of their own. That doesn’t mean they aren’t clean animals, though. On the contrary, ferrets love to groom and groom themselves extensively. They value a clean home just as much.
The clean ferrets work their fur every day with their tongues, teeth, and claws. They usually do not need any support from you. However, regular checks are necessary. So that you can take a close look at your little friend, you have to pick him up carefully. To do this, place one hand under the little goblin’s belly so that he can sit comfortably on your hand.
On the other hand, support the animal’s chest. So you can safely carry your darling around. If you want to examine your ferret more closely, it is best to get someone to help. Even if the little rascal is tame, that doesn’t mean that he will keep still. The little whirlwinds get bored quickly and would rather romp than let you hold them and watch them. The second person can offer the ferret a small treat in the form of cat milk or vitamin paste. Then the little rascal is distracted and immediately learns to associate the examination with something positive.
What needs to be taken care of?
Most of the grooming is done by the ferret, but there are a few things you need to control. Most of the time, ferrets’ claws cannot wear down naturally when kept indoors. That is why they have to be trimmed at regular intervals, about every four weeks. The claws on the hind legs grow less quickly and therefore rarely need trimming. When cutting you have to be careful not to damage the blood vessels in the claws. If you look closely at the claws, you can clearly see the blood vessels. Always cut parallel to the root so that the claw can be placed evenly on the ground. It is best to have a veterinarian show you how to trim your claws first. Every six weeks you should clean the ears with cotton swabs and some vegetable oil. Don’t worry, you can’t hurt your pet. The ferret’s earwax is light brown in color. If it’s darker, crumbly, or if cleaning causes itching, see your vet. The little rascal may have ear mites. Teeth should also be checked regularly. They take care of the animals themselves by chewing on the right food, but if they have bad breath or plaque, see it in good time and consult a veterinarian. By putting your ferret on the scale from time to time, you can check his weight. Although the animals care for their fur themselves, they are happy to have a little help changing their fur. Brush your little rascal every now and then in the spring and fall. If the little tomboy is heavily soiled, you can gently rinse it off with warm water. However, do not use shampoo. By taking these measures, you will have a well-groomed, happy ferret and will be able to identify any illnesses early enough.
The clean ferret home
Of course, not only the ferrets themselves but also their surroundings need to be cared for and cleaned. All litter boxes must be cleaned daily. Take out soiled litter and droppings. Not only to avoid unpleasant odors but also to prevent the lively whirlwinds from stepping on feces and then spreading them all over the apartment. Once a week all litter should be removed and the toilet bowl cleaned with hot water and mild soap. Food and water bowls must also be emptied and cleaned daily. Otherwise, they quickly attract bacteria, which can be very dangerous for the animals. Also, wipe down the floor and walls of the cage or enclosure with hot water and a mild detergent every day. Once a week you should take all the towels out of the sleeping hut and exchange them for fresh ones. You can wash the dirty towels as normal. However, do not use fabric softener, the ferrets could be allergic to it. Weekly cleaning also includes washing the furniture marked by the ferrets and all the little rascals’ toys and hiding spots. Again, it is best to use hot water and mild soap.