Every year I have this debate with myself about how cool to let my
ferrets" area get.  Their quarters are in my basement, which is dry and
reasonably well lit.  Due to the builder's foresight, I have a fair amount
of control over the temperature down there.  For a long time, I've admired
the thick winter coats of ferrets who winter in "florida rooms," enclosed
porches and other semi-outdoor arrangements.  Yes, cool temperatures do seem
to bring out espescially rich tones in cinnamon coats.  BUT, do the ferrets
really like being cold?  I've decided to aim for a constant temperature of
about 55 degrees fahrenheit.  Some of my guys are over 5 years old, so I
figure this is about as cool as they can handle.  And, this is as cool as I
can handle during the considerable amount of time I spend down there with
them!  So far this year, the ferrets seem to be adjusting well - I notice
that they are eating a wee bit more, playing harder when they're in their
exercise areas or upstairs romping with me, and sleeping later in the AM.
 
    For anyone thinking about keeping their ferrets at a cooler temperature
than we humans like, please be sure not to put them in any area where there
is any possibility of drafts or abrupt temperature changes.
 
    This is also the time of year to bring out your fashion crimes and turn
them into cozy snooze bags!  Even you guys who stitch by hand can turn old
sweatshirts into snooze bags, which look so much neater than just a heap of
rags in the cage.  I particularly like old corduroy jackets with fuzzy
lining - I get a couple every time the thrift shop has a $2.  per bag sale.
Just cut off under the armpits and stitch up the sides.  For extra "cush",
try adding a slab of cotton quilt batting between the shell and lining.
Just be sure to avoid any fabrics that a ferret might snag a nail on, and
any padding made of synthetic stuff that burns easily.  Test all potential
ferret "household linens" by burning a snippet - outside!
 
             Cheers from Judith at Frettchenmeister Ferrets
[Posted in FML issue 1381]