Ferrets teeth

Question
Hi, I just got a new ferret and I know its teeth has to be cleaned but, I was wondering what the best way is to do it. Do you know a store that sells good dental care products for ferrets?

Answer
To brush your ferret's teeth (which should be done about once or twice a month as your ferret gets older) use toothbrush made for ferrets, cats or kittens, or you can use a baby tooth brush with very soft bristles.
As far as toothpaste, use a toothpaste formulated for cats, kittens or ferrets. I would think your local pet store should have these products.
Place a small dab of the tooth paste on the brush. Scruff your ferret and gently begin to brush the sides and bottoms of the back teeth, working your way around to the front teeth.  Brushing your ferret's teeth regularly is important,  because you may not be able to do a thorough brushing and hit all teeth every time.  My ferrets clamp their mouth shut and squirm terribly during teeth cleanings.  It takes a lot of patience, and sometimes you need to give the ferret a break in between sides. A ferret under one year old will not need diligent teeth cleaning as much as an older ferret will.
   
 If there is a lot of bleeding,  you may be brushing too hard and damaging the gums.  Don't put a lot of pressure on the tooth brush while you are brushing.  Bleeding gums can also be a sign of gum disease.  Check with your veterinarian if your ferret's gums bleed often, or if you see large amounts of tarter (gray/green areas on the tooth).  You may need a professional cleaning, and only your VET can remove tartar.
Have fun with your new ferret, and if this is your first ferret, a really informative book for beginners is called
"Ferrets for Dummies" by Kim Schillig.
thanks for your question
amy