Whenever a ferret appears to be lethargic or there is a sudden change in its behavior, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended ( see Table: When to See a Veterinarian). Ferrets may hide signs of illness or discomfort until the illness is advanced, so a sick ferret can rapidly become critically ill.
Table
When to See a Veterinarian
It may be difficult to find a veterinarian with experience treating ferrets. Check with ferret clubs, local telephone directories, and online sources such as your state veterinary medical association for a recommendation. Do this before buying a ferret or, if you move, before an illness occurs. A yearly examination and vaccinations are recommended for pet ferrets; this is an excellent opportunity to establish a relationship with a veterinarian. Make sure the veterina
Ferrets do not require much space, making them suitable for apartments and other small living spaces. However, appropriate housing must be provided for times when ferrets are alone or unsupervised. Ferrets also require a high-quality diet, good hygiene, and appropriate levels of exercise and attention to remain healthy.
Housing
A wire cage at least 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep by 2 feet high is sufficient t
Ferrets can quickly get into dangerous situations. They are intensely curious, nearly fearless, highly persistent, and have the ability to squeeze into very small openings. These traits may lead to serious injury or death. Ferrets also like to chew on soft or plastic objects such as foam, pencil erasers, rubber bands, buttons, and other objects commonly found around the home. These objects can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. An intestinal blockage
Physically, ferrets are similar to cats. The male ferret, called a hob, can weigh up to 4 lb (2 kg). The female, known as a jill, can weigh up to 2.5 lb (1.2 kg). Ferrets come in a range of colors, but common variations include white with pink eyes, sable, cinnamon, and chocolate. White patches on the throat or toes are common. A ferret’s coat will change color and density with the season; it will darken and thicken in winter, then lighten and shed in summer. Ferrets generally re
Pet owners are encouraged to maintain chinchillas in single-sex groups to provide companionship but avoid producing large numbers of offspring. Male chinchillas must be grouped before weaning or neutered to prevent fighting. When breeding, potential mates should be introduced before the female enters estrus, the time during which she is receptive to mating, to reduce fighting and increase compatibility. Males need a refuge box to escape potentially aggressive nonestr
Pet chinchillas are typically seen by veterinarians for conditions related to age, trauma, or improper care. Infectious diseases are more common in colony animals raised for fur production than in pets. Viral diseases are uncommon. Tumors in chinchillas are very rare.
Table
Routine Care of Your Chinchilla
Table
Many health problems of chinchillas can be avoided by providing a proper and consistent diet, appropriate housing, a clean source of water, nonabrasive bedding material, and frequent disinfection and sanitation of the cage and water bottle with soap and water.
Housing
Chinchillas need large, multi-level cages with ramps, perches, and platforms, because they tend to be more active than some other types of
You can buy chinchillas at some pet stores or from chinchilla breeders. When selecting a pet chinchilla, it is important to determine that the animal is healthy and that it is used to being handled.
A chinchilla’s eyes should be bright and shiny, but not watery. Discharges from the eyes, ears, or nose may indicate medical problems. Check the chinchilla’s teeth. The upper and lower teeth should be fairly even when the jaw is closed, and there shou