Pet Tip: Sure, ferrets are cute, but keep a close eye on them |
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Tuesday, 26 August 2008 |
------------- US News
------------- Written by: Dr. Katie Racek-Peters
Pet Tip: Sure, ferrets are cute, but keep a close eye on them | RRSTAR.COM
Aug 26, 2008
Dr. Katie Racek-Peters
Ferrets are energetic, adventurous and entertaining pets.
They have been domesticated since 300 B.C. They are a version of the Eastern or Western European polecat. They were originally kept as pets to control rodents and hunt rabbits. They are carnivores and will eat whole prey. They are not meant to eat fruits and vegetables.
Ferrets need lots of exercise, but caution must be used when preparing a room for ferret play. Ferrets will burrow into mattresses and furniture. They also will eat soft foam rubber in furniture, which can cause deadly obstructions. It is wise to block ferret access to these areas with plywood or Plexiglas. |
Never let a ferret play with rubber or latex toys. Remove eye buttons and other detachable pieces from toys. Reclining chairs also can be dangerous: Ferrets tend to crawl into the mechanisms and can get crushed when the chair is opened.
Ferrets need annual vaccinations. Many states require ferrets to have rabies shots. In states where rabies is prevalent, a ferret that bites a human and has not been vaccinated will be euthanized and tested for rabies. In Illinois, individual counties decide the requirement: Winnebago County requires ferrets to have rabies tests; Boone and Ogle do not.
All ferrets should be vaccinated for canine distemper. When ferrets catch distemper, it is 100 percent fatal. Ferrets also can catch human flu viruses. Avoid contact with your pet if you have the flu.
Be sure to ask your veterinarian if you have questions regarding your ferret.
— Dr. Katie Racek-Peters, on behalf of Greater Rockford Veterinary Medical Association Recommend this article... |
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