FERRET FAQ FOR NEW AND PROSPECTIVE OWNERS
Compiled and edited by Pamela Greene ([log in to unmask])
(version 1.1, 1/31/94)
 
This FAQ is being distributed to the FML in about 20 pieces in order to
encourage your comments and suggestions.  I'd also be happy to send you the
whole file; it's roughly 75kB, but I can split it into smaller segments if
your mailer has problems with large messages.
 
*** PART 8 of LOTS ***
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3.2> Do I need a cage?  What kind?
 
[begin PG]
Many people keep their ferrets in a cage or very well-ferretproofed
(see question 4.1) room whenever they can't be supervised.  This
drastically reduces the risks of digestive-tract blockages (caused by
swallowing indigestible objects; see questions 6.1 and 6.2), injury,
and escape.  However, even if you plan to let your ferrets have the
run of the house at all times, you'll want a cage at first for
training (see questions 4.4 and 4.5), as well as for temporary use.
 
Aquarium tanks have enjoyed a certain popularity as ferret cages, but
I think overall wire-mesh cages are better.  Tanks are easier to
clean, but they don't provide much ventilation at the bottom, and your
ferret may feel somewhat isolated from whatever's going on in the
room.  Besides, a nice, big aquarium isn't exactly cheap.
 
If you plan to keep your ferret caged whenever you're not home, and
you'll be gone most of the day, a generous cage size is about 2 X 3
feet and 2 feet high.  A second or third ferret could share that size
cage.  If you'll only be using the cage temporarily, such as when
you're vacuuming or taking your pet on a vacation (see question 4.8),
1 X 2 X 1 feet is sufficient for one or two ferrets, perhaps three.
For trips around town (also see question 4.8), a shoulder or duffel
bag equipped with a litter pan and mesh window works well.
 
In the cage, you'll want some sort of "bedroom" for your pet.  A
ferret won't be very happy sleeping on the open floor of a cage, even
on (or, more likely, under) a towel, but any small cardboard box or
basket works well as a bedroom.  Old towels make excellent bedding, as
long as they aren't too easily chewed to bits.  (Also see question
3.3.)
 
Other than food, water, a litter pan, bedding, and a bedroom, what you
put in your ferret's cage is largely up to you.  Hammocks made from
old jeans or shirts and a set of metal eyelets are very popular for
both napping and playing, and ramps, ledges, tunnels, and toys (see
question 3.9) will also be enjoyed.  Just be sure nothing you put in
your ferret's cage could hurt him, whether by catching a toe, being
swallowed, or some other way.  Also be sure your cage door fastens
securely, perhaps even with a small lock, because ferrets can be very
determined and rather intelligent escape artists.
 
3.3> The pet store uses wood shavings as bedding.  Should I?
 
[begin PG]
In short, no.  Many pet stores and some breeders use cedar or pine
shavings as bedding/cage lining for their ferrets, but it is not
recommended.  Cedar in particular has been associated with allergies
and respiratory problems in various animals, including, for example,
rabbits, but pine and other woods also produce a fair amount of dust
and such which isn't very good to breathe.  Why take the chance?
 
Furthermore, wood shavings are completely unnecessary.  Even if you
keep your ferret in a cage when you're not home, as many people do,
you don't need shavings or corncob on the bottom of the cage.  Ferrets
are more like cats than hamsters: they'll be quite happy with a clean
towel or old T-shirt placed in a small "bedroom box" or basket for
sleeping, and perhaps another towel or a washcloth or two in the cage
as a napping nook and part-time toy.  Sure, some pet stores and
breeders use shavings, but they don't really have the option of using
towels.  We have two ferrets, and a whole basketful of old towels to
put in their cage and favorite napping corners.
 
[Posted in FML issue 0722]