Ferrets Make Perfect Pets for Cat and Dog Lovers

Dogs and cats are the number one and two most popular pet choices, whether you are adopting for yourself, your family, apartment lifestyle, or farm environment, but what if you love them both so much you can’t decide which to choose?  While cats are more easily taken care of in terms of the attention they need and dogs bring that fulfillment of a companion, it can be hard to choose which is right for you.

If this sounds like you, why not consider making a ferret part of your family?  Ferrets are the perfect combination of cat cleanliness and dog friendliness, and make for a fun and unique companion.  Like cats, one of the best things about ferrets is that they are easily trained to use a litter box, eliminating the need to take them outside every few hours.  Ferrets are generally clean like cats, and they also can be found sleeping…a lot!

On the other hand, ferrets are similar to dogs in that they are very playful (when they are awake), can be taught to do tricks, and are generally intelligent animals.  Ferrets never seem to outgrow the cute faces they are born with, and make for the perfect addition to your household.  An important factor to keep in mind when choosing a ferret as a pet, is to make sure their scent glands have already been removed, or else they can spray just like a skunk! 

Ferrets can weigh between 1.5 and 4 pounds and have an average life span of 7 to 10 years.  One of their most intriguing characteristics is what is referred to as the weasel war dance, a routine they commonly exhibit when they become excited.  This “dance” looks like they are hopping sideways, typically bumping into things.  It really is a sight to see!

Just like dogs and cats, ferrets are prone to certain health problems including cancers affecting the adrenal glands, pancreas, and lymphatic system, as well as viral diseases including canine distemper and influenza.  Similar to cats, ferrets can also suffer from hairballs and dental problems, so it is important to take your ferret to a veterinarian, just like you would any other pet.

Choosing to make a ferret your next pet instead of a cat or dog can bring you the perfect combination of both, becoming loyal to their owners like dogs and being able to use a litter box like cats!