Ferrets are particularly fascinating and jovial little animals and, when they are properly trained and socialised, make fun pets. Ferrets are in the weasel, mink and otter family, and share the same mischievous nature of these other animals. Therefore, it should not be a surprise that you need to provide them with plenty of attention and supervise their playtime closely. Local Deakin vet, Dr Sandy Hume, is always amused when observing his ferret patients and has a lot to say about these pets.

“If ferrets are trained early in life, they will enjoy the company of humans. They are extremely good at acrobatics, to the delight of everyone who observes the way they frolic around. It is also beneficial to know some important health facts should you decide to get a ferret as a pet”, says Dr Sandy Hume, respected Deakin vet.

“Comparable to dogs, ferrets are prone to acquiring Distemper virus infection, which can trigger serious neurological disease. Therefore, it is recommended that kits (young ferrets) be vaccinated against this virus when they reach 6-8 weeks of age, with a booster vaccine in their 12th week of age”, comments Deakin vet Dr Hume.

“Ferrets are also similar to dogs because they can become contaminated with heartworm, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. They can get monthly oral treatment or spot-on preventatives. These methods will also help protect ferrets against gastro-intestinal worm issues”, explains the local Deakin vet. “Using Revolution as a spot-on preventative for heartworm will also be effective against fleas – external pests which can harm the health and wellbeing of ferrets, cats and dogs.”

“Should you purchase a pet ferret, have them castrated or spayed upon reaching 4 to 6 months of age. Female ferrets, called jills, often become poorly if they are in oestrus and remain unmated. This may lead to fatal disease, due to the elevated levels of circulating oestrogen in their body. If males (hobs) are uncastrated, they may become extremely aggressive and will fight for dominance, and also emit a strong unpleasant odour to mark their area”, Deakin vet Dr Hume warns ferret owners.

Ferrets are basically meat-eating animals. As carnivores, they should be fed a good quality meat-based diet. Dry food for kittens is an excellent choice, along with a supply of uncooked meaty bones a few times per week to keep their teeth fresh and their gums in good physical shape. They should not be fed with a soft tinned food diet because this may cause them to suffer from dental disease.

“In order to ensure that your ferrets are healthy, bring them in for regular check-ups at the local Deakin vet. Ferrets run a high risk of developing lymphoma and adrenal gland cancers, but these diseases may be treatable if they are diagnosed early, hence the importance of routine health examinations”, adds Dr Sandy Hume, trusted Deakin vet.

For further details and tips on ferret pet care, get in touch with the Deakin vet at Inner South Veterinary Centre on 02 6295 0770 or visithttp://www.innersouthvets.com.au/blog/deakin-vet-dr-sandy-hume-on-his-inspiration-for-treating-exotic-pets.

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