Cage and ferret pack questions.

Question
Hello. I am trying to research and obtain opinions regarding cages. Do you feel that they are necessary? I currently have two male ferrets (both are just over 1 year old) that have become accustom to being cageless. These are my first ferrets and I am just curious what the rest of the ferret-owning community does for ferret housing. They are allowed in three rooms of the house and the rest have been blocked off by doors and Plexiglass gates. I do still have a very large Marshall brand cage, but I am thinking about selling it, as it serves no purpose but to take up space in my house. Let me know what you think.

Also, I am just wondering if it is better to have three ferrets than two? We started with one (Sid) and found that he was much happier with a second (Scrat). Would three be better or ruin the ferret pack?

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Shanna,

This is a tricky question because not everyone has the same opinion about caging ferrets. They are DEFINITELY not hamsters, so having them free roaming is not a big deal at all, but I am one of those that thinks a ferret should be restricted to one or two rooms that aren't in the MAIN house area, because ferrets tend to get underfoot quite a bit. If you've already gotten used to this and are sure the place they are allowed to go is totally ferret proof (i.e. there is nothing they can get into or stuck under), then I say go for it. I just think that ferrets get so underfoot so easily that we run the risk of stepping on them even if we don't mean to. Also, you never know about what they can get into! But if you're already used to accommodating for such things, then you should be just fine! Cages are more for the ferret's safety when you aren't around than anything else. Ferrets are not like hamsters, like I said, so keeping them caged all of the time is not a good idea. If you want to sell it, go ahead! Just make sure that you have everything blocked off and I would suggest confining to a VERY ferret proofed room when you aren't there!

As for the second part of your question, I think three ferrets is a perfect number of ferrets to have and that is because they will all be bonded to each other, and if one passes, it will make the loss easier on the other two (and you). So, three is a great number of ferrets to have. That is how many I have. The pack will be solidified, in my mind, not ruined. With introductions, you might see a bit of "working out dominance issues" and I'm sure that you already know that you shouldn't intervene unless someone is bleeding, screaming, or pooping out of fear. Otherwise, even if its scary to watch, you shouldn't intervene. Also, remember that there should be about a week to ten day quarantine on the new ferret plus a check up to make sure there are no health issues that (s)he could pass on to the other two. Also, I suggest adoption before purchasing a baby always because that ferret that you adopt will come with a bit of background info plus you might find a good resource in the shelter that you adopt from. Often times, adopted ferrets are cheaper. Just make sure you get a health history, whenever possible and if not, make sure to get that ferret into the vet for a check up!

I hope this helps and if you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask!

Sincerely,
Emilee Andrews