Ferret Cage Choices
When considering the purchase of a ferret, there are many logistics to consider. One of the most important is the selection of a ferret cage to house your new family member.
The decision as to what cage works best is many times a compromise as most people have limited space in their house or apartment to accommodate their new furry friend. The cage is going to have to be located in a room that is capable of being “ferret-proofed.” A careful inspection of the room for places where the ferret can get into trouble is a requirement. Once the room is deemed acceptable, the cage position should be determined. The ferret should not be exposed to drafty conditions or in a damp place. It should not be placed directly under a window or where it will receive direct sunlight. If you wouldn’t let your kids sleep there you shouldn’t let your ferret sleep there.
Be sure to allot enough floor space for the cage to sit unobstructed by other furniture. Plan on a footprint of about 24 x 36 inches for a lone ferret. Six square feet per ferret is a good guideline.
The planning stage is a good time to go to the internet and start looking at what is available for purchase. If you prefer, try your local pet store. It is great when you can have a knowledgeable sales person help you with this important purchase.
As you research your choices of ferret cage you will discover a number of features that are common to most and some features unique to one model or another. Most ferret cages will be made of wire mesh. Many will have shelves. A number will have more than one story. Caution. If your cage is multi-storied there is a real danger that your ferret could fall and be injured. Multi-level cages should include intermediate shelves or hammocks to give a ferret a short harmless fall instead of a long, painful fall.
Solid flooring, shelves and ladders are designed to be easier on the ferret’s feet. These are found in more premium cages. Wide doors are important for getting the ferret in and out and changing the litter box. Ferrets are smart creatures and will try to escape from their cage. Invest in locks for the door that are truly ferret-proof. You don’t want a surprise visitor in your bed in the middle of the night.
Premium features like climbing tubes and hammocks make your ferret’s home more enjoyable for him.
The cage should contain at a minimum: bedding (this can be anything from old towels in a box to sleeping sacks to hammocks), a food bowl and either a water bowl or a cage-mounted water bottle, and a litter box. These should be arranged in such a way that the food is farthest away from the litter box.
The choices you make in selecting a cage will serve to make your experience having a ferret as a pet a rich one. Choose thoughtfully for your new family member.