So you have decided to have a ferret as a pet. This is not an unusual decision, as ferrets make excellent pets and many owners can attest to that. After all, pets have been domesticated for the last 2,000 years and were introduced to North America as pets 300 years ago. They can be trained like cats and dogs and make excellent happy companions for the right home and family.

Just like any other pet, ferrets require the same kinds of care, including exercise, proper social training (just like cats, they can be litter box trained), and veterinary care.

Some jurisdictions do not allow ferrets as pets, as in the case of New Zealand. The argument against ferrets being held by such jurisdictions lies in the fact that ferrets have quite sharp teeth. But this is something that can be easily circumvented with proper training. In fact, stallions can bite, but only in self-defense if, for example, they are cornered. This is just a natural survival instinct that all animals and even humans have in circumstances where a threat is detected.

Ferrets are like small children, very playful and exuberant, so if you have both it is a good idea to supervise them closely when in close contact, but this is evident even if they are in contact with other pets. For older children, ferrets do indeed make great pets.

Here are also some interesting and useful facts to keep in mind if you decide on a ferret as a pet:

Ferrets are great sleepers and can sleep 18 hours a day. But they are most likely awake at times when you are used to feeding or interacting with them.

They can be found napping in places you’d least expect, so check extra carefully behind that cushion before sitting down in front of the TV or reading a book.

As mentioned, they are very fun pets and will play with another ferret (if you bought more than one) without much supervision, amusing themselves and you.

Their lifespan is typically 6-8 years and sometime up to 12 years. With proper care (see end of article), there’s no reason its typical lifespan can’t be extended even further.

They are somewhat blind, but make up for it with a strong sense of smell and hearing.

They belong to the weasel family and are related to minks, skunks, otters and badgers. But keep in mind that they are the only member of this family (also known as Mustilidae) that it is possible to keep and tame.

Ferrets are the ideal pet if you are looking for an alternative to having a dog or cat. Just like them, they can easily be tamed to become members of your extended family. And unlike cats and dogs, you won’t have to worry about bothering your neighbors with loud barking dogs or using your (and your) yard as a bathroom.