Ferrets
Mischievous Affectionate Adorable
Ferrets have become popular pets because of their size, playfulness and intelligence. However, deciding to bring a ferret, or any other pet, into your home takes some preparation and knowledge. Like all pets, ferrets require adequate living environment, diet, and health care. The average lifespan of a ferret is 7 years. They can be kept as single pets but are social animals and do well with a playmate.
- Ferrets belong to the weasel family (Mustelidae), which includes polecats, stoats, and ermines. Domesticated ferrets most likely descend from the European polecat.
- Ferrets were domesticated about 2,500 years ago. Historically, they were used to hunt rabbits and rodents. Their lean bodies and curious nature make ferrets naturals at getting down holes to chase rodents and rabbits out of burrows. This is the origin of the expression “ferret out.”
- The name “ferret” is derived from the Latin word furittus, meaning “little thief.” This name likely refers to the common ferret habit of secreting away small items.
- A ferret's whole life seems dedicated to either sleeping like the dead for 20 hours a day or playing joyfully with anything that moves, crinkles, or can be snatched up in their teeth.
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