Ferretproofing Tips

Are you looking for a cute and fun little pet that’s a bit unique? A ferret may fit the bill! These guys definitely score very high on both the cute and fun scales. Of course, when it comes to our animal friends, the terms ‘fun’ and ‘mischievous’ are often interchangeable. Ferrets are very frisky and curious. However, they don’t necessarily know what is and isn’t safe for them. You’ll need to do some ferretproofing to keep your tiny pal safe. An Ellicott City, MD vet offers some advice on this below.

Shiny Objects

Ferrets, as you may know, are notorious for having sticky paws. Anything small or sharp is going to be quite appealing to your tiny buddy. (Actually, anything your pet can possibly carry off is fair game.) Keep things like coins, buttons, safety pins, jewelry, lighters, and pets in spots your pet can’t access. Items like keys, cell phones, wallets, and even shoes are also fair game.

Toxins

Make sure to only keep non-toxic plants around. You’ll also need to be careful with cleaning supplies and other chemicals. We recommend getting childproof locks for your cabinets.

Escape Proof

Ferrets can slip out through some pretty small holes, and they can chew right through many screens. Do some escape proofing. Make sure that your fuzzy little friend can’t get underneath your appliances or behind your counters. Dryer vents and air ducts are also possible hazards, as are boxspring mattresses and spaces under sofas and recliners.

Wires

Wires and cords are a big concern here. Your furry pal could be seriously hurt if he were to chomp down on a live wire, and could possibly even start a fire! Use protective coverings on wires you can’t move out of paws’ reach.

Water

Ferrets can drown in just a few inches of water. Keep toilets closed when not in use. If you have fishtanks or a pool, make sure your curious little pet cannot get to them.

Laundry/Trash

We can’t overstate how much ferrets love to get into everything. Laundry baskets can actually be quite dangerous to them. Your cute pet could be curled up in a basket of clothes that’s about to go into the wash. Yikes! Be very careful with laundry baskets. This applies to trashcans, too. For more information on ferret care, contact us, your Ellicott City, MD animal hospital, anytime. We’re here to help!