subject: Ferret Color and Care [print this page] Ferret Color and Care Ferret Color and Care
The fur that surrounds the ferret's body is known to ferret enthusiasts as "guard hairs". Found underneath a ferret's guard hair is an undercoat. The undercoat is short and softer. The difference in color of those parts of their body is what makes up ferret colors.
What makes ferrets more interesting is that you'll never know what a ferret's dominant color would be at birth. If you would want a particular color to your ferret, it is best to get one once they have defined their true colors. This may take weeks, sometimes months, before it is completely established. Ferrets adopt their color to the climate in their natural habitat. But there are those who have found a way to cross-breed their ferrets to achieve their desired color.
The most popular choice of ferret color is albino, because of their snow-like white characteristic that is so noticeable. Then there is the black sable and the fairly rare cinnamon colored ferrets. Cinnamon however are not commonly available. It is not surprising to know that many ferret lovers would like to get their hands on those rare ones. A ferret lover would of course take pride in owning one.
Besides the fact that cinnamon ferrets are rarely seen, they have unique and distinct looks that make them even more attractive. Their brown guard hairs are matched with reddish brown sometimes blonde undercoat, burgundy eyes and pinkish to brown colored noses that makes their overall appearance cinnamon-like.
Ferrets originally were limited to only four colors: albino, white, black and silver. But through crossbreeding, people were able to come up with a huge variety of interesting colors. Now, many ferret lovers choose the color not by popularity but according to their taste and what best reflects their personality.
There are a lot of different mixtures and patterns you can find, thanks to the wonders of modern ways. Their noses come in many distinctive color tones too. Some ferrets' noses are stained or outlined with a T shape. Their heads could sometimes be marked with blazes, mitts or panda. Ferrets are classified as standard, solid, roans or point called Siamese. Unlike other animals like dogs which are classified with their breeds, ferrets are classified by their colors and patterns.
Aside from knowing how to choose your desired ferret color, it is also advisable that you know the proper care and maintenance for your pet ferret. Ferrets love den-like surroundings and ideally a wire cage. Ferrets enjoy multi-leveled enclosures that give them adequate space to play and explore during their waking hours. Also, ferrets are very good in finding their way in and out of tight spaces and opening latches. Make sure that your ferrets' cages are safe and secure.
Once you decide to adopt a ferret for a pet and already have a particular color in mind, a breeder would be the best person to go to. Ferret breeders mate ferrets to produce kits with preferred qualities, particularly the color. With the numerous ferret cross breeding made by humans, you are very likely to find a ferret color that you desire. However, be wary too as there are some breeders who dye the ferret's fur just to achieve a certain tone that customers might want for a ferret color. So it is best that we should be more on guard about these kinds of deceitful practices. Also, remember to know their proper housing especially their diet and behavior to keep your ferrets healthy, happy and strong.
