subject: Polecat - Ferret: Distinguishing Features [print this page] Polecat - Ferret: Distinguishing Features
A polecat, ferret and sometimes a cat are often considered to be similar to each other. Although the polecat and the ferret both belong to the same weasel family, there are distinct differences which can distinguish the two. The classifications are as follows:
Appearance: Ferrets typically have tiny ears, razor sharp teeth and an elongated and curvy body. Polecats are thinner with round ears and small projection of the head. Quite unlike a polecat, ferret eyesight is extremely sharp. Polecats rely mostly on smell. They can be identified by a characteristic smell which emanates from their body, as a result of a typical secretion.
Eating Habits: Polecats are essentially carnivores whereas ferrets also enjoy fruits, dry fruits and unusual stuff like peanut butter.
Nature: Ferrets are known to be much more social animals, and it is easy to domesticate them. Polecats are essentially loners cannot make great pets. They are known to be selfish animals that are left alone, at best.
Breeding: A polecat can actually choose its mating time. A female polecat can decide by herself, when she wants to get pregnant and mate accordingly. However, its different for ferrets, they do not have any control over their mating period. They cannot control their breeding, it is specifically time bound and will occur during a fixed time of the year.
Whether it's a polecat, ferret or a cat; they can be easily differentiated from each other, despite their apparent similarities. Each animal behaves differently and has a set of distinctive characteristics which should be studied closely to understand them better. If you are looking at bringing home a pet ferret or a cat, it becomes all the more important for you to understand and comprehend their behavioral patterns and which aspects distinguish them from one other. It's always important to know your pet well, in order to train him successfully.
