Ferret Proofing Your Home
While I was reading through some ferret blogs, I came across a great article I wanted to share. All About Ferrets posted an article on Ferret Proofing & Other Things to Consider. It was so great, I had to share the highlights with all my readers.
Block Out All Gaps
Please make sure that you block off gaps around all appliances so that your ferret can’t get to wires, rubbers, insulation, fan blades or any moving parts. Some ferrets love chewing on electrical cords so if you notice yours does, please spray the cords with bitter apple or a similar spray. |
Look for Hidden Holes
I would suggest putting your ferret in a harness and just watching it carefully as it sniffs around the new room. If your ferret does suddenly disappear somewhere or seems like it’s found something that takes its attention, then you’ll need to get down on your hands and knees and have a good look at the area. If you find a hole, no matter how small, make sure you block it up immediately. |
The idea of harnessing your ferret is pure genius. I have never considered doing this but what better way to find ferret holes than to use a ferret. Once you see your ferret making a run for the hole, you have the harness to stop them and you cover the hole.
Rockers / Recliners / Fold-out beds Are Dangerous
The article has a scary but true anecdote about accidentally shutting an American Ferret into a fold out bed. While the story was scary, the ferret turned out fine. It does give warning that ferrets are masters of getting into places they should not.
Polystyrene / Soft rubber / Foam / Olive pits & Other Stuff Which Can Block Intestines
Take care with soft rubber or foam toys for dogs or cats, in case your dog chews the toy and leaves bits of rubber or foam lying around. |
While we are aware ferrets love to dig and those couches are a favorite, I never would have thought about the pacifier.
Other Dangerous Places Ferrets Like to Hide
The author goes on to give cute little stories that they have collected over the years regarding different dangerous ferret antics. Here is a quick list of the places the author lists.
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Fridges
- Ovens
- Vacuum Cleaners
- Fireplaces
- Stairs
- Laundry Baskets
- Driers (Dryers)
- Air conditioners / Reverse cycle heaters
- Microwaves
- Baths / Spas / Pools
- Toilets (Loos)
- Empty toilet / paper towel rolls
- Drains
- Boots (Blunnies, Doc Marten, Army, etc)
- Carpets / Runners / Mats / Clothes on floor
- Lawn mowers
- Packing suitcases / bags for a trip
Each place has an anecdote where someone actually hurt their ferret by not paying attention. Therefore, this is a good list to keep around (or go over before buying a ferret.) Ferrets are naturally curious little creatures and they have a tendency to hide in the most unusual places.
It is our job as ferret owners to keep the little guys safe and sound. This also means when need to ferret proof our house just like we would baby proof a house for a new child. Keeping pets safe is always a high priority.