Ferrets!

Ferrets are the third most popular pet after dogs and cats. Ferrets are small mammals. They are related to minks, polecats, weasels, and otters. Surprisingly, ferrets are not related to rodents, such as mice or hamsters.

Ferrets are fun pets. They require much playtime and exercise, but ferrets may be an unwise choice for a family with small children. Because ferrets did come from the wild, they have tough skin and are prone to rough play.

But, if you believe a ferret is the ideal pet choice for you, there are some things you should know. It is very important to supervise a ferret that is running free throughout a house. Ferrets can get stuck in tight spaces and suffocate or get caught. Even toilet paper and paper towel rolls are dangerous. Also dangerous to ferrets are cleaners. After you clean their cage with a product, such as Lysol, you should be sure to thoroughly rinse it out, as many cleaners are harmful to ferrets. And, just like dogs, chocolate is toxic to these little critters.

Ferrets can become very destructive if cooped up for too long. It is important that owners exercise them a lot.

Ferrets have a lifespan of about 7-8 years. Males are called hobs and females jills. It is important to care for your ferret's health. You should trim a ferret's nails monthly. This can help with the scratching factor, but is also important because when running around, a ferret's toenail can get ripped off if it gets caught in a carpet thread.

To reduce the risk of ear troubles, it is also important to clean a ferret's ears. Bathing is also necessary for your furry little friend. To keep your ferret's teeth healthy it is important to refrain from feeding your pet soft, sticky foods. It also helps to brush your ferret's teeth once a week.

Many people avoid buying ferrets because of the odor. Ferrets can become much better smelling pets once they are neutered or spayed. It's essential for females to be spayed, unless they are going to be bred.

Ferrets are born in litters ranging from 1-18 babies! At birth, a ferret's hair is white, but it changes. Ferrets actually have two coats of fur. The top coat is mainly for repelling water and dirt. The bottom coat is insulation. Ferret hair colors are classified into groups -

Ferrets shed about twice a year during spring and fall. Baby ferrets are born deaf. It takes approximately a month for a baby to begin hearing.

Lastly, ferrets have a high protein diet. Since their digestive tract is short (3-4 hrs), vegetables are hard to digest.

- Jen, 12, Ohio