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A Little History About Ferrets

Want to know about ferrets but don’t know where to begin?

There are millions of other ferret lovers who are confused with the massesamount of information available about these charming furry creatures.
Whether you are considering a ferret as a pet, living with someone who is just crazy about ferrets or simply curious on the nuances of these musk-producing mammals, here are a few basic things that you should consider as you get started with your ferret passions.

Similar to many domestic pets, the original reason for ferrets' domestication by human beings is not clear but it is thought to have involved hunting. It is thought that the ferret is a distant relative to the European polecat , though it is also possible that ferrets are descendants of the Steppe polecat, or some hybridization thereof.

The name "ferret" is derived from the Latin furittus, meaning "little thief", a likely reference to the common ferret penchant for secreting away small items.

For centuries the main use of ferrets was for hunting, or ferreting. With their long, lean build and inquisitive nature, ferrets are naturally equipped for going down holes and chasing rodents and rabbits out of their burrows.

By nature, ferrets are adventurous and curious animals. Ferrets spend 14 to 18 hours a day sleeping and are naturally most active during the time between dusk and dawn. They are furry creatures with natural oils that make their pelts shiny and smooth. They also have the tendency to grow long nails so a consistent nail-cutting session is in order for ferret owner wannabies.
As ferrets are highly adventurous animals, you will need to keep a watchful eye on them as they play. They have the habit to swallow objects that can be poisonous or damaging to their digestive tracts. So if a watchful eye is not kept on your ferret frequent visits to your local vet could be on the cards.

The main colorings recognized for ferrets are: Albino, Champagne, Chocolate, Dark-eyed White, Silver and Blue.

As they grow older, they seek company of other ferrets. Older ferrets, like some adults, may actually display domination or superiority to the younger ferrets. They also have the tendency to develop cliques and may not accept new ferrets in their circle easily.

Ferrets are similar to the skunk in that they are able to produce musk. Some countries allow that the glands responsible for their musk production be cut so that they will not stink as much, but countries like UK and Australia find that this is not really necessary.

Regulations vary from country to country, so when you are caring for your ferret, make sure that you are aware of the rules and regulation applicable to your region