Exercise, toys, cage size, litter & more

Question
Hello, How large of a cage would I need for three/four ferrets?

How much out of cage time should be given daily?

What kind of toys should they have and how many should they have each?

Can newspaper or yesterdays news cat litter be used in the litter pan? can I used old clothing for bedding?

Will they want to play with me if I have a group?

Do I have to get them all at once?

Can I feed them purina one kitten formula?

Thank you for any help in advance.

Answer
You have asked some good questions. I will try to answer as best as I can.
Hello, How large of a cage would I need for three/four ferrets?
I would say at least three full levels. I like cages will full levels, not just "shelf" type levels.

How much out of cage time should be given daily? At the LEAST three hours of separated play time (by separated, I mean, an hour, then back in cage, then another hour later, etc.)

What kind of toys should they have and how many should they have each? ferrets will make a toy out of anything, paper bags, empty plastic bottles etc. But the also sell commercial toys int the stores. I would buy as many as you can, they LOVE to hide them!!

Can newspaper or yesterdays news cat litter be used in the litter pan? can I used old clothing for bedding?
I like plain cat litter, but that a matter of preference. You can use old clothing as bedding, but a hammock is a much better choice.

Will they want to play with me if I have a group? That is up to the individual ferret. I had two that wanted to be with me ... the others were more interested in the group. Their personalties are much like cats. Some like to snuggle, some like to play. But most ferrets like to PLAY!

Do I have to get them all at once? Generally, ferrets bond well as babies, just like kittens do. But if you wait until an adult ferret is established, there could be some problems with him seeing the newcomer as an intrusion. I suggest get them a couple of months apart as babies.

Can I feed them Purina one kitten formula? Yes, I strongly suggest IAMS or Purina special care. These both have NO fish oil, and that helps with the odor/

Also, a GREAT book to get is " Ferrets for Dummies" by Kim Schilling.

Thank you for any help in advance....
You are very welcome ... thanks for your question, and good luck!
amy