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Caring for Pet Ferrets
by HAZEL LEO

The rich and famous are known for starting all types of trends and one of the latest is using pets for fashion accessories. Famous for nothing Paris Hilton and pop starlet Britney Spears are just a few of the individuals in the limelight carrying small pocket sized pets as accessories. However, while this trend seems to be taking off and many stars as well as the not so famous have purchased pets to accessorize their wardrobes it really is not a trend that the general population should follow.

Caring for Pet Ferrets

Ferrets may not be a common animal choice for pets, but these critters have been domesticated by humans since way back in 4 BC. Many people find ferrets nice to have and as easy to keep, if not easier, as other typical pets like dogs and cats. Here are some basic tips about caring for ferrets. What are exotic pets like?

Making a Home for the Ferret

Ferrets prefer living in spaces that resemble dens in the wild. A wired cage that is about 30 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 18 inches long may suffice. Many ferrets like living in cages that have things to climb such as ramps and stairs. The cage should allow good ventilation, thus it is not wise to use aquariums. The floor may be covered by linoleum tiles and carpets or other soft washable materials to make the flooring more comfortable for ferrets to walk on than wire floors. The cage should be kept within 55 to 70 degrees. It should also be cleaned regularly with hot soapy water.

Feeding Ferrets

Ferrets are carnivores that require at least 22% fat and 34% protein from animal sources. It isn't recommended to feed them dog or cat food. Chicken and turkey are ideal. Ferrets should never be fed vegetables because they are difficult to digest. Fruits are also not an option because sugars may increase tendencies for insulinoma. Egg whites should also be avoided because they can cause hemolytic anemia.

Many people are in search of the perfect pet. Whether you are single, newly married, married with four children, or about to retire, there are some things to consider when you begin looking to include a pet into your family. When you think of having a pet, you most likely think you have to choose between having a dog or a cat, but in reality there are countless animals that can become ideal pets.

Potty Training

A small 3 to 5 inches-high cardboard box may be used as a litter box for ferrets. Litter pans should be secured to a side of the cage, far from the ferret's eating and sleeping areas. Litter products made of plant or paper fibers are recommended to prevent clumping of fecal matter.

Keeping Ferrets Clean

Ferrets tend to produce undesirable odors. To prevent them from smelling to strongly, they can be bathed using a special ferret shampoo, kitten shampoo, or diluted baby shampoo. It isn't advisable to bathe ferrets daily, because it will dry their skin, causing overcompensation of oil secretion, making the ferret smell more. It is also important to check the ferret's ears for mites regularly. Ears should be cleaned using cotton soaked in a special cleanser that can be bought from a pet store.

Keeping Ferrets Active

Ferrets are very energetic animals. It is recommended to keep them entertained with toys that aren't easy to break to maintain the animal's safety.

Ferrets can be nice pets when one knows the right ways of caring for them. Having them can be a fun and exciting experience.

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About the Author:
How do you care for an exotic pet
Article Source: http://www.amazines.com/
Disclaimer: The information presented and the opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Pampered Pets™.com and/or its partners.