Ferrets make great pets, but there are some myths about them that keep people from even considering adopting them. The following information serves to dispel many of the myths about ferrets. Hopefully, if you’ve heard and believed one of these myths, this information will help you see that a ferret really is a fantastic pet.
Myth #1 – Ferrets are wild animals. Ferrets are not really wild animals. In fact, ferrets can no longer survive in the wild as before because now only domesticated breeds exist, with the exception of the black-footed ferret. If a pet ferret is released, it will not survive long.
Myth #2 – Stallions suck. This is true, unless the ferret’s owner has it deodorized. Ferrets have scent glands just like skunks, and when they are scared or threatened, those scent glands release. The scent tassels on the back near the tail can be removed. Ferrets also have scent puffs under their eyes, which cannot be removed. However, as long as the ferret gets a bath once a month, it won’t smell.
Myth #3 – Ferrets are rodents. This is not true. In fact, ferrets eat rodents. A ferret is actually a member of the weasel family. Weasels are also not rodents. They are Mustelidae.
Myth #4 – Rooster stallions. Yes, ferrets do bite, but it’s usually not to be mean and they can be trained not to. Think of it this way: a bolt jaw is strong enough to break every bone in your hand. Although he won’t do that. He may bite you while he plays with you, but again, he can be taught not to.
Myth #5 – Ferrets transported. Many animals can carry rabies if they are not vaccinated. Tacos are no different.
Myth #6 – Ferrets see well. In fact, ferrets do not see well at all and, furthermore, the only colors they see are red and blue. Because stallions do not see well, one must be careful to ‘sneak up’ on one.
Myth #7 – Ferrets are dangerous to young children. That’s not true. In fact, children are a danger to ferrets because they play too hard. This is why ferrets should not be around small children, not because the ferret could harm the child.
Myth #8 – Ferrets cannot be housetrained. This is absolutely wrong. You can train stallions to litter, train them not to bite, and even train them to do tricks. Try to train a cat to do tricks!
Myth #9 – If you’re allergic to cats, you shouldn’t have a ferret. This is also absolutely wrong. In fact, ferrets are known as the hypoallergenic pet. They do not produce pet dander. Ferrets are perfect for anyone who has any type of pet allergy.
Myth #10 – Ferrets should be caged, like hamsters. This is not true, although many ferret owners cage their ferrets when they are not home. This is for the protection of the ferret. Ferrets are very curious and will often get into dangerous situations if they are not being watched, just like small children.
