How to Set Up A Ferret Habitat

Before you adopt a ferret, you need a cage or habitat for them to sleep and eat in. You’ll want to consider your space, budget, and how much time you have for maintenance. With all the different options on the market, it can be hard to determine which one will best fit your needs. Use our tips to help you decide what kind of habitat is best for your ferret.

Ferret Habitat Needs Food, water, bedding, and litter

Food and water bowls should be heavy enough so that they are not knocked over. They should also be somewhere that is easily accessible so your ferrets can eat comfortably. Keep in mind that some ferrets do like to play in their water dish, in that case, a side-mount water bottle will be a better fit.
Ferrets spend 14-18 hours per day sleeping, which means that their “bedroom” needs to be awesome! Since they are burrowing animals, their bedding is very important. There are many different products specifically made for ferrets who burrow, however you might find that your pet is much happier with a few of your old t-shirts. Whatever keeps them happy!
Litter can be a bit tricky since ferrets have delicate respiratory systems. You’ll want to avoid litter made for cats since they are often made of clay, which becomes thick when wet and could stick to your ferret’s paws and body. It could be harmful if ingested. Wood shaving based litters should also be avoided as they contain essential oils that are harmful to your pet’s lungs. Shredded newspaper, recycled paper, corn, or wood pellet bedding material are the best choices for your ferret’s litter box.

Stimulating Accessories and Toys

Apart from basic survival needs, you’ll also need to provide an enriching environment for your ferrets while they are using their cage. Toys that are being used without supervision should be durable, without choking hazards. A hard plastic ball or stuffed animal with the stuffing removed are great options.
Keep these same rules in mind for other cage accessories such as hammocks or climbing structures. Using string to fasten accessories to the cage is not suggested since ferrets have a reputation for eating string. If you’re not sure how your pet will behave with a new toy or accessory, make sure to closely monitor them during their first use.
Since ferrets have sensitive respiratory systems you’ll want to provide them with clean air. Cleaning their litter often, opening a window, and keeping your home dust-free is a great start. But, the best way to keep your home’s air clean and fresh is with CritterZone. CritterZone replicates outdoor air by using the same process to clean the air that mother nature does. Plus, it will help with any odors your ferrets or their cage might produce!

Improve indoor air quality for you and your pets with CritterZone – an air purifier for pets and pet odor eliminator.