Did you know a grouping of ferrets is called a business and the name ferret is derived from the Latin word for thief?
Ferret facts
Latin name: Mustela Putorious Furo.
Ferrets are thought to have been first bred from the wild European polecat at least 2500 years ago.
They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, and spend between 14 and 18 hours a day sleeping.
Female ferret is called a Jill.
Male ferret is called a Hob. (In some areas they are called a Dog ferret.)
Young are called Kits, abbreviation for kittens.
Life span 8 years average, some are claimed documented to 14 years.
Gestation period 42 days. Litter size up to 13. Weaning age up to 8 weeks.
Average weight male 1.35 Kg Female 0.75 Kg
Ferrets are thought to have been first bred from the wild European polecat at least 2500 years ago.
They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, and spend between 14 and 18 hours a day sleeping.
Female ferret is called a Jill.
Male ferret is called a Hob. (In some areas they are called a Dog ferret.)
Young are called Kits, abbreviation for kittens.
Life span 8 years average, some are claimed documented to 14 years.
Gestation period 42 days. Litter size up to 13. Weaning age up to 8 weeks.
Average weight male 1.35 Kg Female 0.75 Kg
Ferrets are carnivorous, they eat meat, not vegetables. They are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a special diet that is mostly meat-based and contains between 32-38 % protein and between 15-20 % fat.
Ferret Illness
Any thing that that gives cause for concern regarding ferret health should be put in the hands of a vet. When ill, ferrets can deteriorate quickly. They can be affected by various health problems - the most common being cancers affecting the adrenal glands, pancreas, and lymphatic system.
Good husbandry can help prevent many ailments. Be aware that Ferrets can catch colds and flu from humans, also they are susceptible to kennel cough.
When molting it is a good idea to brush their coats.
Good husbandry can help prevent many ailments. Be aware that Ferrets can catch colds and flu from humans, also they are susceptible to kennel cough.
When molting it is a good idea to brush their coats.
Ferret colouring
Albino: Red eyes white coats. Polecat: Brown & black coat bandit like mask on the face. Black eyed whites: self explanatory. Sandy: Similar to polecat but with a yellow / buff coat.
Ferrets come in all shapes and sizes, all make good pets.
Ferrets come in all shapes and sizes, all make good pets.
Ferret History
I can only assume that ferrets have been in the UK since the arrival of rabbits and rats. I have read of similar animals being mentioned in the bible and used by the ancient Egyptians. This is all a matter of conjecture, no one knows for certain.
Ferrets?