What To Feed Your Ferret

A proper diet for a ferret is 32 to 40% animal protein and 20 to 30% fat. Ferrets can't digest fibre very well so make sure their protein comes from animals and not plants.

While high quality foods may cost more, it's worth it in the long run. Cheap foods usually contain more ash and corn which can lead to kidney stones and other health problems for your ferret.

There are foods available just for ferrets, but check the ingredients to make sure they provide the necessary animal protein and fat. Many ferret owners feed their pets dry cat food. With a young ferret dry food for kittens is good, but as he gets older switch to the adult dry food. An occasional can of wet cat food is also okay. Never feed your ferret dog food. It is usually low in protein and high in ash, just the opposite of what your ferret needs.

Dry food can be left out all the time for you ferret to snack on whenever he is hungry. Canned food should be removed and refrigerated as soon as he is finished so it doesn't spoil.

There are times you will want to give your ferret treats, either as a reward for good behaviour or just for the heck of it. This is fine but be careful what treats you feed him.

You can buy ferret treats at a pet store or give him cat treats. People food that make good treats are cooked meat, cooked eggs (hardboiled or scrambled, never raw), cereal that is not sweetened, and fish. However, some owners report that after eating fish their ferret's waste has an unpleasant smell.

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People food that shouldn't be given to ferrets include: chocolate (can lead to insulinoma), dairy products (can cause diarrhoea), and fruits and vegetables (hard to digest).

There are supplements that you can buy for your ferret but if he is eating a healthy diet, they aren't necessary. If you notice his coat is dry and/or coarse, check with your vet to see if supplements are needed.

Lastly, don't forget to give your ferret plenty of fresh water. If you keep your ferret caged, a water bottle attached to the outside of his cage works well. If you use a bowl make sure the bowl is heavy enough so that he can't tip it over and spill the water. A heavy dog dish works well.

To ensure years of enjoyment for both you and your ferret, a proper diet is a must.

About the Author:

Barb Jensen lives in upstate New York with her numerous pets. http://www.freewebs.com/fabferret

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