Proper Feeding for Your Ferret

If you want your pet to live for a long time, a proper ferret diet is very important. Without correct feeding your ferret is at risk for serious health problems. Ferrets evovled to be meat eaters and because of this they need a high protein, low fiber diet in order to do well. Several years ago the best choice for feeding ferrets was high quality cat food. You can continue to buy high quality cat food for your ferret, however there are lots of different ferret food options available that can supply the combination that your pet requires – high quality fat and low carbohydrates. The proper mix will help ensure that your ferret can achieve a maximum life span.
A correct and balanced diet is critical for a baby ferret. Here’s the important things to look for when choosing food for your ferret: 35-40% protein, 18-30% fat, 2% fiber, 21 amino acids, less than 7% ash and some good carbs like rice flour or brewer’s yeast. Look out for ferret foods that incorporate frozen fish as your ferret won’t eat it. Ferrets have been known to starve themselves rather than eat food they don’t like. High quality ferret food is often costlier than a premium quality cat food, however ferrets don’t eat very much, so buying quality food shouldn’t be that expensive in the long run. Supplements won’t be needed if you’re making sure your ferret gets a healthy diet.
Your ferret needs to eat at least twice a day to make sure it gets the number of calories it needs to preserve good health. Because ferrets are small animals the portion sizes given to them should be small as well. When giving your pet a moist diet, the food can only be left out for 45 minutes or so, then it should be removed if it has not been eaten. If you’d like their food to be accessible for longer than that, you might want to think about using a dry pellet food. Dry pellets help to keep your pet’s teeth clean and can be left in your ferret’s cage for the entire day. If you select a dry pellet diet for your pet, make sure there is always fresh water available. Ferrets seem to prefer drinking from a dish rather than a water bottle so supply them with fresh water in a bowl. Remember to change their water frequently to keep it fresh and clean.
Treats are not required for your ferret buy they can be helpful if you’re trying to train or housebreak your pet. Good snack options are cooked eggs and meats. You should stay away from high-sugar fruits or candy as well as any dairy products like ice cream or milk. Also, avoid nuts or nut products. Any of these could cause nutritrional problems. Health problems that your ferret could encounter include malnutrition, obesity, tooth decay, diarrhea, intestinal blockage, insulinoma and hypoglycemia. Be sure to use treats sparingly so your ferret doesn’t begin to refuse its normal food. A ferret doesn’t tolerate vegetables and grains well, so be sure to avoid them. And, be sure to avoid onions because they are actually poisonous to ferrets.
Making sure your ferret has a healthy diet is crucial in maintaining a long and healthy life. Your ferret will be content, comfy and less susceptible to any life-threatening illnesses. Ferret owners are generally known for giving their pets lots of love and attention, however, feeding them correctly is the best way to show affection.