FERRET FAQ FOR NEW AND PROSPECTIVE OWNERS
Compiled and edited by Pamela Greene ([log in to unmask])
(version 1.0, 12/15/93)
 
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 70kB, but I can split it into smaller segments if
your mailer has problems with large messages.
 
*** PART 1 of LOTS ***
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This document is very much a work in progress.  Please treat it as
such, and feel free to send corrections, comments, and additions.
 
I am not a ferret expert.  I have done my best to include only
accurate and useful information in this file, but I cannot guarantee
that what is contained in this file, whether written by me or by one
of the contributors, is correct, or even that following the advice
herein won't be harmful to you or your ferret in some way.  For advice
from an expert, you may wish to consult one of several books
available, or, especially in the case of a suspected medical problem,
a veterinarian who is familiar with the treatment of ferrets.
 
CONTENTS
 
0. *** About this FAQ ***
   0.1> Goal of this FAQ
   0.2> Credits and editor's notes
 
1. *** Introduction to ferrets ***
   1.1> Are ferrets wild animals?  Why are there ferret permits and
        FFZs?
   1.2> Should I get a pet ferret?
   1.3> What's this I hear about ferrets attacking babies?
 
2. *** Getting a pet ferret ***
   2.1> Which color is the best?  Male or a female?  What age?
   2.2> How many should I get?  All at once, or one at a time?
   2.3> Do I need a license or permit?  How do I find out?
   2.4> Where can I get a pet ferret?
   2.5> I just got another ferret.  How can I introduce him/her to my
        old one(s) with the least trouble?
   2.6> How can I introduce my ferret to my (dog/cat/bird/fish/rabbit/
        etc.) with the least trouble?
 
3. *** Things you'll need ***
   3.1> What will I need to take care of my new ferret?
   3.2> Do I need a cage?  How should I set it up?
   3.3> The pet store uses wood shavings as bedding.  Should I?
   3.4> What should I feed my ferret?
   3.5> Should I give him any supplements?
   3.6> What are good treats?
   3.7> What kind of litter should I use?
   3.8> What kind of collar/bell/tag should I use?
   3.9> Any suggestions on toys?
 
4. *** Basic ferret care and training ***
   4.1> How can I best ferretproof my home?
   4.2> What vaccinations will my ferret need, and when?
   4.3> Do I need to spay/neuter my pet?  How about descenting?
        Declawing?
   4.4> How do I train my pet not to nip?
   4.5> I'm having problems litter-training my ferret.  What should I
        be doing?
   4.6> Any suggestions on bathing, cleaning ears, and clipping nails?
   4.7> Can I teach my ferret tricks?  How?
   4.8> Do ferrets travel well?
 
5. *** Things ferrets say and do ***
   5.1> Ferrets don't purr, so how do I know if mine likes something?
   5.2> My ferret trembles a lot.  Is that normal?
   5.3> Help!  My ferret is going bald!
   5.4> Is he really just asleep?
   5.5> What does such-and-such a noise mean?
   5.6> What games to ferrets like to play?
   5.7> What else should I probably not worry about?
 
6. *** Problems to watch for ***
   6.1> What warning signs of disease should I watch for?
   6.2> What are some of the more common diseases in ferrets?
   6.3> How did I get fleas in my home?  How can I get rid of them?
 
7. *** Where to get more information ***
   7.1> How can I find a ferret breeder/contact/shelter in my area?
   7.2> How do I join the Ferret Mailing list?
   7.3> Is there any other information available on-line?
   7.4> What are some of the books available?
 
8. *** Revision history of this file ***
 
[Posted in FML issue 0696]