subject: Ferret Home Selection And Set-up [print this page] I applaud you on your wise choice of adopting a ferret. If you're reading this it is most likely your first. It may be frustrating or seem complex at times, but keep in mind it will be rewarding as well. That said, it is very important that the ferret home you choose be set up correctly, as certain common mistakes may compromise your ferret's health.
A ferret home runs relatively expensive compared to the rest of the things you will buy for your ferret. They can run between 50 and 200 dollars for a single ferret home, or substantially higher for multiples. This is just the general range, you can find excellent ferret homes for more reasonable prices. Just make sure they are safe and comfortable for your ferret.
The primary discussion will be about safety as there are many individual variations and preferences for comfort. Do not use woodchips in your ferret home as they often lead to respiratory issues for your ferret. Wire flooring is also a big no-no. You can get a ferret home with it, but be sure to cover it with thick carpeting, linoleum, cardboard, or something else of the like that will evenly distribute the ferret's weight. The purpose is to keep your ferret from hurting its feet.
The next point to address is set-up. If you have a hammock for your friend, set it up away from the sides of the ferret home as they'll likely get hurt swinging if you don't. Do not put their sleeping area by their litter tray either. If you have to ask why, take a moment to think what it'd be like to sleep in your bathroom. I don't think it is very pleasant for them either.
Ferrets don't need huge areas to sleep in, but before you set up their sleeping area you should know a handful of things. Ferrets sleep the better part of the day away, so the quality of their sleep is very important. They love dark places to sleep in and also tend to "sleep burrow." This is exactly as it sounds, so any soft, excess material will work like a charm on both counts, if they can get themselves down into it.
There is one more parting shot that you'll thank me for later. Heavy food and water dishes are important to keep them from knocking them over and playing with them. You may also tie down lighter dishes.
