Ferrets, no doubt, are adorable creatures and make for great pets.
Whether you already own one or thinking about getting one, it is never too late to be informed regarding the ferret diet’s good and bad.
Photo Credits
Even if not rocket science, it’s still better to be prepared for the things you might have to do before actually doing them.
So, let’s get started.
When to Feed Your Ferret?
Ferrets have a high metabolism, meaning that they digest their food much quickly compared to humans.
So, keep in mind that ferrets consume a higher number of meals per day than us.
Eating about 8 to 10 small portions of daily meals is normal for a healthy adult ferret.
What to Feed?
Now for the what part. Ferrets, like cats, are carnivores and would like to eat meat.
As a general rule, their meal should include protein-rich sources of food.
You can look for ferrets meal pellets at your local pet store, but make sure they are of good quality.
A healthy meal for ferret should include lamb or chicken.
Also, avoid using corn or grain as they may cause health problems to your ferret.
Photo Credits
Staying solely on the food pellets is also not good, so consider some homemade food.
Cooked meat, lamb, chicken, white fish, or even eggs can be fed to ferrets and are all protein sources.
Which Things To Avoid?
One should not feed ferrets food meant for other animals, like cats, hamsters, or dogs.
That food might not be able to fulfill the nutritional requirements of a ferret diet.
In case the local pet store does not have ferret food, get kitten food from them.
As kitten food has a high protein content, so the ferrets can eat it.
Photo Credits
Also, keep in mind that ferrets are carnivorous animals.
So, they cannot digest vegetables, fruits, or dairy products properly.
So, do not feed them foods that contain high sugar and carbohydrates, as it may upset their tummy.
Where to Pay Attention?
While grooming themselves, Ferrets may swallow down the hairballs that shed from their fur.
Unfortunately, they cannot regurgitate (puke out) stuff like cats, causing stomach problems.
One can use supplements prepared to prevent the development of hairballs.
Photo Credits
Just make sure to include those supplements in your ferret’s diet.
Also, try to include a variety in their diet even if your ferret likes to eat only a particular meal.
It ensures that your pet is meeting the nutritional requirements.
You can also give them treats, but use only lamb, chicken, or (sometimes) cat treats.
Conclusion
Ferrets, like cats, are carnivores and need a high protein diet to maintain a healthy life.
Photo Credits
So, being the owner, it’s your responsibility to provide them high-quality food.
Also, keep them away from chocolate, ice cream, and dog food.
