Bathing

       Ferrets naturally have a musky odor that can be bothersome to some people.  To help cut down on the odor, you can bathe your ferret, however, you should not bathe your ferret more than once every two weeks because their skin can dry out and become itchy.  It is not necessary to bathe your ferret at all, it depends on your personal preference.  You should use shampoo especially made for ferrets, like FerretSheen, Sable Sheen, or diluted baby shampoo.

Ear Cleaning

        You should also purchase ear cleaner and make that part of the bathing process.  There are many commercial brands you can choose from or you can use hydrogen peroxide.  Put a few drops of the cleaner in your ferret's ear and massage the area.  Then gently wipe the outer portion of the ear with a cotton swab, careful not to put the cotton swab into the ear, which could  damage the eardrum.  Ferrets can get ear mites if their ears are not kept clean, which can be passed on to other ferrets.
 

Nail Trimming

      Ferrets, like cats, need their nails trimmed once a week.  There is a pink part of the nail (called the quick) which is a vein and if cut, will bleed.  Cut about an eighth of an inch beyond the quick.  A trick to nail trimming is to put Ferretone or Linatone on their belly, while they're licking away they will not even notice what you are doing.  It is important to keep your ferret's nails trimmed so they don't get caught on their bedding or the wire in the bottom of their cage.

Brushing

       Ferrets shed their coats during the spring and the fall, so it is a good idea to brush your ferret regularly.  It will also give you an opportunity to check for fleas, dry skin, and any bumps or sores your ferret might have.  If their musky odor bothers you, there are spray on conditioners that will not only help alleviate smell, but also keep their coat soft and healthy.  You may also want to give your ferret a hairball laxative to prevent intestinal blockages.

 

 

Email: heatherkain@juno.com
Last Updated: October 29, 2001

All information is from my personal experience and research only, if there are any questions about the care of your ferret, you should contact your veterinarian.