Now that you have or will be getting a ferret it is important to prepare your home for it’s inside activities.  Of course supervision of the ferret(s) when it is out of the cage is important, but you can’t always be there all of the time.  Here are a few suggestions to help with the inside maintenance of your new furry pet.

Windows and Doors should be securely closed to prevent the ferret from wandering outside. Ferrets are inquisitive and can be out the door or window before we know it.  Screens are not always a preventative measure because ferrets can tear the screen or push them open.  They can be very persistent when they have a challenge.  This would also include any holes in the wall or open heater vents that they have access to.  They like to get into tight places and if they can squeeze in they probably will try.

Electrical Cords and Outlets can present a problem when openly exposed.  Not only are ferrets chewers, but also like to get tangled up in anything they can, so not only the chance for a shock but also strangulation and the possibility of pulling something heavy down on them.  You should treat the outlets and cords in a similar matter you would for a child.  Plastic outlet covers are available as well as zip-ties for bundling loose wires together to prevent accidents.

Fans and Portable Heaters are another electrical concern when ferrets are loose in the home. Try to locate fans out of reach to prevent the ferret from getting their feet caught in the slots or injured by the blades.  The same with space heaters, which can be easily tipped over causing fires or burns to the ferret.

Rocking Chairs and Recliners demand caution when used with a ferret out of the cage. Ferrets are very social with their owners and many times right under your feet.  Rocking chairs can do considerable damage to a ferret if it rocks over a body part.  Open recliners offer a playground for your ferret to climb in.  Not only can they get caught inside of the chair but the operating mechanisms in the chair can seriously injure or kill a ferret when opened or reclined. 
It is best not use these types of chairs when interacting with your pet.

Anything with Drawers or Doors offer ferrets a place to get into mischief. Drawers or doors on cabinets should be securely fastened or closed firmly to prevent the ferret from getting into dangerous chemicals or something that could harm them. Also it will prevent them from pulling out or destroying items they shouldn’t be in.

Household Plants are an enticement to ferrets because they are natural diggers.  Some soil mixtures can be toxic as well as some plants also.  It is best to keep them out of reach if possible, not only to avoid the mess, but also prevent ingestion of leaves, which they can’t digest and possible internal blockages.

Trash and Foreign Objects can pose a threat to your ferret’s health.  They are likely to eat or ingest anything they can.  Disposed foods high in fiber or sugar can really cause problems with your ferret’s digestive system.  Foreign objects such as rubber bands, paper, cardboard, Q-tips and other items can cause blockages in the digestive track leading to surgery and/or death.  It is always a good idea to pick up small pieces of anything around the house that might entice the ferret to consume it.  Try to keep your trash containers inaccessible to prevent accidents much less messes to clean up.

Family Laundry is a special hiding place for most ferrets.  As you already know or will soon know ferrets enjoy socks and foot odor.  Therefore a big basket of laundry is heaven on earth for them.  Always make sure to check the clothes before dumping into the washer and dryer. Always keep the doors closed on the washer and dryer also.

As you can see ferrets bring on more responsibility than just food, water and a habitat.  They are best supervised when they are out and around to prevent unfortunate accidents.  They are very social and prefer to spend one-on-one time with you anyway.  When you are away or busy they can enjoy a quick nap in their home until later excursions.

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