Did you know that May 5th is National Ferret Day? Although ferrets may not be the best pet for everyone, they are certainly very adorable, and can make wonderful animal companions. These intelligent little furballs are both curious and playful, and they love to explore. Therefore, you’ll need to take some steps to make your home safe for your adventurous pet. Read on as a Bowmanville, ON vet offers some tips on ferretproofing.

Choking Hazards

Ferrets often try to figure out if things taste good by, well, trying to eat them. Small items can present very serious choking hazards to these little ones. Some of the things you’ll want to put away include pen caps, earring, buttons, and craft kit pieces, like sewing needles or beads. Stuffed animals, toys, and even pens and pencils can also be hazardous.

Toxins

Many household items are toxic to ferrets. Remove or secure toxic plants, chemicals, medications, household and automotive products, perfumes, and pesticides.

Nooks and Crannies

Ferrets love to explore little niches, and they can fit into some pretty small spaces. It isn’t a bad idea to get on your hands and knees and look for potential escape routes. Block openings around air ducts, fireplaces, windows, and doors. Seal off spaces below and behind cabinets, furniture, and appliances as well.

Other Hazards

Never underestimate the power of a ferret to get into mischief. Fans, speakers, plants, and lamps can all be dangerous. You don’t want your pet pulling any of these heavy items onto themselves! Wires and drape cords should also be secured. Finally, if you aren’t sure where your furry pal is, always check below blankets or cushions before sitting down.

Red-Handed Furballs

You may have heard that ferrets have, well, red paws. Your opportunistic pet is a bit of a hoarder by nature, and may take off with anything and everything he can carry. Some of the most common things ferrets have been known to snag include coins, keys, cell phones, jewelry, pens, socks, and remote controls. Watch your pet closely if you notice him taking off with something, and see where he stashes it. If you can’t find something, this is the first place you’ll want to look. If you want more information about ferretproofing, or have questions about ferret care, please contact us, your Bowmanville, ON animal clinic. We are here to help!