Ferrets: Feeding

What should I feed my ferret?

Ferrets are carnivores and cannot digest a diet that contains more than 4% fiber. A good quality ferret diet should contain 32% to 40% protein and 10% to 15% fat. There are several good commercial dry foods for ferrets. While cat food has been suggested for use in ferrets in the past, diets specifically made for ferrets are more appropriate and highly recommended.

Whole-meat diets are an option, but they can be messy and, if not balanced properly, can lead to nutritional imbalances. There are also diets designed for the unique needs of growing ferrets, pregnant or lactating ferrets, and geriatric ferrets. Remember that your ferret is only as healthy as the food it eats, so feed them the best food possible. Ask your veterinarian about the best diet for your ferret.

How often should I feed my ferret?

Ferrets have a rapid gut transit time (from eating to defecating) of three to four hours, so they appear to eat and defecate constantly. It is best to leave food out 24 hours a day, allowing your ferret to graze as desired. However, ferrets that spend excessive time eating may become obese and should be offered limited portions.

As ferrets age, some develop tumors in their pancreas, which causes them to produce excess insulin. This excess insulin means that ferrets can easily develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), even with food. Ferrets that develop low blood sugar should be fed several small meals throughout the day.

Can I give my ferret treats?

Avoid feeding your ferret sweets, dairy products, raisins, fruits, and vegetables, because these foods may cause diarrhea and erratic swings in blood sugar. A piece of cooked meat or some meat baby food is acceptable as an occasional treat. It is not necessary to supplement a healthy ferret’s diet with “duck soup” (a special liquid diet), as it causes obesity in ferrets that consume it regularly. Duck soup is intended as a supplemental diet for sick ferrets that need extra calories.

Do not feed chocolate, as it can be fatal to ferrets. Check with your veterinarian before you feed your ferret any people food, especially snack foods. Dietary changes can contribute to problems such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and pancreatic problems. In addition, ferrets can become overweight if they are fed an abundance of calorie-dense treats or foods.

Does my ferret need vitamins?

Ferrets do not require additional vitamins if they are fed a high-quality, premium diet designed for ferrets.

How much water does my ferret need?

Fresh, clean water should be available 24 hours a day. You can offer water from a sipper bottle or a heavy crockery bowl that will not easily tip over, as ferrets love to play with and spill their dishes. Clean all food bowls and water sippers every day with soap and water and rinse well. Check to ensure the sipper tube is not clogged with food or algae. Change the water at least daily, even if there is still water available, as bacteria and yeast can accumulate if the water is not changed.