Ferret Supplies

When you decide to make a ferret the new addition to your family, then there are going to be a few things that are an absolute must. Most of these items can be purchased at any neighborhood pet store or, believe it or not, around your home. In the event that you are not able to find something you have decided that you need, then simply look online, or ask the local pet store for help in find the item.

There are, in my opinion, four categories for each of the essential that a ferret needs. Listed below are these categories, and a brief listing and description of each item in the category. Keep in mind that each ferret is different, so this means that there is going to be some trial and error involved in finding what your ferret needs to make him/her happy.

Home:

• Cage. Simply put, the larger of a cage that you get for your ferret, the better. Ferrets typically like to climb and roam, and this allows them the space to do this without letting them run wild in your home. A large hamster cage works just fine.
• Flooring. Believe it or not, ferrets do have pretty sensitive feet. To avoid injury, place something along the bottom of the cage to protect their feet from the wiring. Use things like scrap carpeting, linoleum or even an old towel or blanket.
• Bed. You can get a hammock (which seems to be a popular favorite for many ferrets) at any pet store. That being said, some ferrets like something a little different, and that is more cave-like.
• Water bottle. One of those water bottles that you hang on the side of the cage is going to work perfectly.
• Food bowl. Just about anything is going to work for this job, and you can purchase one at any pet store.
• Litter box. You can either use a small kitty litter box, or purchase one specifically for ferrets.

Hygiene:

• Food. It should go without saying that you are going to need to purchase food for your ferret. You can try either the specialized ferret food, or even cat food that has been specially formulated for kittens.
• Shampoo/Conditioner. Ferrets need to be washed every two weeks (to help cut down the odor). Make sure that you have ferret shampoo and conditioner.
• Brush. A simple cat brush works wonders in keeping your ferrets coat healthy and shiny.

Toys:

• Structural. Purchase some structural toys like tunnels, ramps, wheels and so on. This gives your ferret a simple "gym" that they can use to exercise and keep entertained.
• Toys. If you purchase toys for your ferret, either get ones that are designated for ferrets themselves, or for kittens.

General:

• Leash. Believe it or not, you can actually purchase a ferret leash to take your ferret out on walks. These are best used around the house when you don't want to play hide and seek.
• Carrier. As with any pet, if you are going to do any traveling, you are going to need a carrier.
• Training aids. If you don't want your ferret to play with something, or bite into something that they shouldn't then simply use some of the same training aids that you get for dogs or cats. One of the best types to use is Bitter Apples.