What are /r/ferrets' favorite Products & Services?

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

I went through that "buy ferrets expensive toys" phase for awhile -- I think every new ferret owner does -- but eventually you realize that ferrets don't care about expensive toys. Cardboard boxes, plastic bags, towels, milk caps, old socks, bubble wrap, and other "trash" is all fun and games for ferrets. You can even make your own toys better and cheaper than what you can get pre-made; for example, this Ferret Ball Pit comes with 35 balls and costs $19. Alternately, buy these 144 ping pong balls for $6 and use the cardboard shipping box with a couple of holes cut into it.

They're adorable!

You may want to look into getting bowls like these. They clamp to the cage and can't be moved/flipped. Ferrets tend to have trouble getting enough water from bottles like that.

I just wanted to warn you that this picture has already made it onto daily-little-animals.tumblr.com without proper credit to you. This blog has been stealing photos from this subreddit (including my own) and I just thought you should know. If you want it gone, fill this out https://www.tumblr.com/dmca That's what I did and it got removed within 8 hours

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M3Y1WTT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_22JFXFNYDEKXZZ8RJ17T?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

This is the exact one I bought. Some people may be skeptical because it is not a pet brand. I spent time look it up and determine if it would be safe for my noodles. I saw in reviews that quite a few people use it for pets like ferrets and after having some other (admittedly) Google searches, I deemed it to be safe. They love it (as you can tell by their loops)

The initial vaccinations are only initial you still need to follow up with a vet and get the boosters. That food is also very bad for them and is known to cause health problems. Consider switching to Wysong Epigen digestive support and give them salmon oil as treats. Try to avoid Marshall products at all costs, they’re all pretty generally bad for ferrets and their company misuses and mistreats ferrets. Pet stores are not knowledgeable about their care and their goal is to make a sale so I wouldn’t trust anything they tell you.

Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 Digestive Support - Dry Ferret Food, Four - 5 Pound Bags https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019W9VYPY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-63nDb7DRG9E3

Grizzly Omega Health for Dogs & Cats, Wild Salmon Oil/Pollock Oil Omega-3 Blend https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074N97RFP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_R73nDbKF2QDCC

Its the one sold by Marshall. it works great! The spacing is nice and small so they cant get out and the bars that are horizontal are spaced far enough apart that they cant climb it. they also sell an extension to it to make it larger. we tried ALOT of "small pet" pens when we were looking but they all managed to have some kind of flaw that our sneaky ferrets managed to find and get out. so i highly recommend this one! here it is on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Marshall-FC-224-Small-Animal-Play/dp/B0002ARQT6/ref=sr_1_2? ie=UTF8&qid=1524961061&sr=8-2&keywords=ferret+marshall+playpen

Neither. With the gravity waterer and feeder your ferrets are just going to dig it all out and make a massive mess. The bottle ruins their teeth in the long run. Just get those bowls that attach to the cage like these: https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Stainless-Removable-Hanging-Animals/dp/B07CZHWHYD/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=crock+cage+bowls&qid=1595411148&sr=8-4

Hey this picture was posted without your permission and without credit to you here.

http://daily-little-animals.tumblr.com/post/119004183161/what-its-like-to-own-a-catsnake

I-Am-Not-A-Laywer

Since the picture belongs to you, you can take it down via the DMCA take down request on tumblr.

https://www.tumblr.com/dmca

Yes, the trouble walking can be a sign of insulinoma. You said she went back to her old self after eating which makes it seem more likely because eating would have brought her sugar up.

Definitely vet her ASAP and between now and then check every 3-4 hours and make sure she’s eating to avoid it getting too low. If you have a glucose monitor you can check her sugar yourself at home if she has another episode so you can let the vet know.

All good points. Those recliners are so scary they can cause so much damage if your little one is in the mechanism when you recline/decline. Another common house hold danger is those bifold closet doors. I had just moved into my current house and have never had bifold closet doors before so I never thought anything of it. My ferret got her head caught in one. When I finally got her out she threw up. I’ve never seen a ferret throw up before. It was honestly so traumatizing and I’m so lucky her trachea didn’t get crushed. I immediately invested in some of these

Safety Innovations Complete Deluxe Bi-fold Door Lock - (2- Pack) - Made from Unbreakable Clear Polycarbonate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001QKGLZQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.J4eFb6DZM5WX

This is the first pic of my dudes from the shelter and the first picture of them when I brought them home

I used a ferret one for a day or so but the little buggers really just squirm out of it. So i went back and the guy there recommended the Bunny lead. We got two of them (one for each Ferret) and they work well! Although the little monsters have no idea how to walk on a leash, i use them when we go to the park and just sit in the grass with them. That way they feel free but are also never too far away from me.

http://www.storenvy.com/products/223772-four-paws-safety-rabbit-lead-and-harness

The playpen. I spent so fucking long trying to rig play areas for him just to save a few bucks. I attached it to the front of his cage and use flattened cardboard boxes to keep him from climbing (cage bars are horizontal). It's pretty big. If you have room, buy two and you can attach them. Mine loves his ferret ball too (big plastic ball with 3 holes in it you can attach tunnels to).

Put your money toward good food. Look at the ferret kibble chart and buy 2-3 to mix from the top 2 sections. I'd stay away from Wysong. Don't trust them any more. Wellness CORE and Natures Variety Instinct raw boost are great. They sell them both on Amazon for the same price they are at the pet store here. 1 bag of each lasts a single ferret a couple/few months.

As for things not to waste money on: the ferretlax stuff-- they will eat plain vaseline just fine. Ferretone gives mine diarrhea every time. No need for a crap ton of toys-- throw down an old pillow with a case and a few fleece blankets or old tee shirts they can burrow around in.

These are just dehydrated chicken meat

You can make them with https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0188X0UT6/ref=psdc_1090752_t3_B008H2OELY

Take the cheapest one dehydrator, and cut pieces of meat, put them on the tray, let it dry for 3 days at something like 104°F to keep all flavor of the meat.

edit, edited the amazon link for the cheapest one (have something similar and to be honest i'am pretty sure that in this price range they are all the same just with a different brand, already have 2 years and still working, if the plastic basket start to crack, put fine mesh over it, just make sure it let airflow pass).

These thing are also not cheap when you look at the Kg price, make them yourself, in 3/4 package of treats you have payed off the dehydrator.

I got it from Amazon 6m for £7. It does not lasts forever because it's not that heavy duty and and ferrets love go destroy things if possible. I would say it lasts for 3-4 months. But since you cant clean tube this long that easy im OK the life span of it and most importantly the ferrets love it.

White Flexible Fan Ducting - 6m Long Extractor Fan Hose Tube - 4" 100mm Diameter https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B011OOQ9PA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_L2YsBbNEJPGG9

One of these days I'll get around to putting together a stock answer for this. Looks like other people have hit the basics but here's my normal warning.

Ferrets are generally very quiet animals. They do make noises while playing (squeaks, dooks and hisses) but generally do not make noise to draw your attention to problems in their environment. IE, a dog/cat will bark/meow to let you know they are out of food, water or need to be let outside/have their litter cleaned. Ferrets won't.

So up front ask yourself if you're willing to check in on the ferret at least twice a day to ensure it has enough food/water to last 2-3 days? Clean out it's litterbox at least once every day or two and let it out of the cage at least once a day? Not that those times are ideal but as a minimum? Any not just for the next few months until you become accustomed to the cute but for the next 5-8 years?

Without an affirmative to those foundational questions, the rest of the exercise is futile from the start. I dislike being a downer but I'd rather people be realistic in their assessment of their own desires and commitments to a ferret (or two, or three, darn ferret math) than to have another ferret posted for adoption, surrender to an overtaxed shelter, or worse.

Blockage symptoms include severe lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting. They may also have diarrhea (oftentimes dark green or black), won't poop as much, and/or the poop may be super thin, like pencil lead thin.

Is he pooping normally now? I've had awful smelling poop with an ECE infection in a new ferret, that comes with neon green diarrhea.

He should have access to a bowl for water. Ferrets have a very hard time getting enough water from bottles. You'll want bowls like this that clamp to the cage bars. To check if he's dehydrated, tent the skin behind his shoulder blades then release. It should snap back down immediately. If it doesn't, he's dehydrated.

All of his symptoms should have prompted an immediate emergency vet visit. If it was a blockage, you are very lucky it didn't kill him. It's good your still planning to take him in. Please do so even if he seems to be improving.

Looking at that tumblr, it seems to me they're just pulling most of their photos if not all from this subreddit and posting without credits.

https://www.tumblr.com/abuse/misattrib is another avenue you could take.

How old is she? sounds to me like she hit puberty. Ferrets can be real aggressive pitbulls when in puberty.

When she bites, dont scruff or anything just put her straight into her cage and ignore her for the next few hours. Do this every single time she bites. In the beginning this means you wont interact that much with her but soon she will learn that if she wants play time she better behave. Other then that its just waiting till puberty clears up I still remember when mickey hit puberty...still have the scars to prove it :D

>Puberty- Everyone who breeds ferrets knows all about the joys of ferret puberty, It is hard to say when it starts exactly, but normally in the first 5 months of their life. In this stage even a little angel ferrets turn into little devils. They bite a lot, messing around and even if they were nice and calm before they turn into little grumpy creatures. Even the ferrets use to dung well into their dry toilet/same toilet as cats have/ they seem in puberty forget all that they have learned. Puberty is something what every keeper has to respect. Puberty is a normal development of ferrets. It is the same as puberty of our children. Exactly the same. In this period ferrets will just drive you mad. It does not have nothing to do with their lost love for you but hormones. Puberty ends when ferret reaches 1. source

I remember when mickey hit puberty...still have the scars to prove it :D

Absolutely! I will go ahead and say I use two different kinds but the Niubya puppy pads are the ones I like best. :)

Honestly I would see if you can return it and get a Ferret Nation cage. They are WAY better. The one you have now is hard even for full grown ferrets to use.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0054U8UGW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is the best cage for ferrets! <3

it's hard for them to get water and a lot of the time they give up and are very dehydrated. if you don't want a bowl because it'll spill everywhere here's a spill proof bowl that has a bottle that automatically refills the water so it lasts even longer before having to be refilled. Luck Dawn Double Dog Cat Bowls Water and Food Bowl Set，Detachable Stainless Steel Bowl Automatic Water Dispenser Bottle Pet Feeder for Small or Medium Size Dogs Cats Puppy Kitten Rabbit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086ZMMV72/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VKEPGGW9A4881AYZHXE6?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

it's really bad for ferrets to use bottle as it can chip teeth and take forever to get enough water

yeah there's also spill proof bowls Luck Dawn Double Dog Cat Bowls Water and Food Bowl Set，Detachable Stainless Steel Bowl Automatic Water Dispenser Bottle Pet Feeder for Small or Medium Size Dogs Cats Puppy Kitten Rabbit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086ZMMV72/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_VKEPGGW9A4881AYZHXE6?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I feed my ferrets the wysong ferret epigen 90 digestive support. You can get it on Amazon here:

Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 Digestive Support - Dry Ferret Food - 5 Pound Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019W9VXZK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DM9QybAWSR9YB

I did have to mix it in with the Marshall food they give the ferrets at petco. I just mixed it 50/50 and gradually added less of the Marshall food. It took about 2 weeks to get them off the Marshall food.

You can make dried meat yourself, make them with https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0188X0UT6/ref=psdc_1090752_t3_B008H2OELY

Take the cheapest one dehydrator, and cut pieces of meat, put them on the tray, let it dry for 3 days at something like 104°F to keep all flavor of the meat.

The Amazon link is for the cheapest one (have something similar and to be honest i'am pretty sure that in this price range they are all the same just with a different brand, already have 2 years and still working, if the plastic basket start to crack, put fine mesh over it, just make sure it let airflow pass).

This is a similar process but conserve the moisture into the product.

But this is something that i found "useless", you could just give them fresh piece of meat or fish or shrimp instead of paying a premium 11.99$ for 2.5 Oz (71g) of product.

edit, almost 170$ the Kg Wow

It slides in panels! Got it off amazon and it’s able to screw into the wall and cover up to 5ft of doorway space. Something like this! I added plastic panels to each one or else the ferret will climb cover and end up where there aren’t supposed to be..

Small screws, that hold the latches. I use the kind with the Nylon rollers. Very sucessfull, easy, and no damage to the cabinets. http://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/door-latches-catches_317608238.html?s=p

I use this one

i got this one ! https://www.amazon.com/KOUSI-Playpen-Indoor-Animal-Guinea/dp/B01L3JMRGQ?pd_rd_w=P2Uz8&amp;pf_rd_p=bd21ac36-fc3c-469f-acce-68814d02eac3&amp;pf_rd_r=BQTES277FW0YA840DQDJ&amp;pd_rd_r=c1d6f3d8-0584-42d6-929f-94130ff3dad1&amp;pd_rd_wg=uaM4w&amp;pd_rd_i...

Call your vet and ask their opinion on what to look for and when to come in. I think that’s your best bet.

But in general as always; look for the big signs something is wrong: excessive lethargy, not pooping or peeing, not eating, excessive diarrhea, vomiting or pooping blood, excessive gagging,trouble breathing etc.

P.s I recommend getting a hanging jewelry holding with clear zip pockets. Even if they get it down they won’t get in. Like this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CPHFN34/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_PA2848PYYE26KHQQ01SV?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

You'll have to get bigger bowls. https://www.amazon.com/MidWwest-Homes-Pets-Snapy-Stainless/dp/B000MD3NLS/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&amp;keywords=MidWest+Homes+for+Pets+Snap%27y+Fit+Stainless+Steel+Food+Bowl+%2F+Pet+Bowl%2C+10+oz.+for+Dogs%2C+Cats%2C+Small+Animals&amp;qid=1626624589&amp;sr=8-1
Try this bigger size. I use the smaller one with my girls and they like it, but if she's having trouble buy the bigger one I guess.

The clear one I think is a Marshall’s tube that has been stretched way out and twisted but I would recommend these from Motor City Ferrets rescue Etsy page. I found them after I bought mine and have heard much better reviews and it’s supporting a ferret rescue is a extra bonus. The purple ones in their pool I found on Amazon .

It is a more of a pain than disposables but mine don’t really try to move them move much so I also have less carpet messes. It is much easier than dealing with litter boxes used to be. Now I have a system down I spend about 20 minutes cleaning puppy pads.

I have both Niubya and PoochPads. I personally prefer the Niubya but know of two other people that prefer the PoochPads for their ferrets. The Niubya have a plastic backing to them which makes them a little heavier but less prone to them wanting to move them (the ones mine will move are the PoochPads). The people I know that prefer the PoochPads also use the pad holders and I do not. My guys don’t move them too often and I have never had issues with pee leaking through either brand.

As for cleaning, it depends where I am & the weather. I have lived where I would take them outside, shake out the poop in the compost and then use a water hose with spray nozzle to spray off any leftovers and that also tends to rinse most of the pee out of them. If I can’t go outside, I shake the poop out into the toilet and spray them off in the shower. After I’ve sprayed them off, I toss them back into the plastic boxes I use for them. I use 5/day and have 16 so once I have 10 (two days) in the box, I run them through the washer & dryer. I have two plastic boxes I use for them that were once the ferret’s litter boxes.

How about this one? I can get it from tractor supply as well. Ware Manufacturing Large Canvas 8-Panel Clean Living Small Pet Playpen Cage, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000OX8AG4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XDZX0315WCWDQE5GK7G4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WDN7VFR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1 I like this for out of the cage. If they still manage to pull the bowls up. Hot glue a magnet on the bottom side of the mat where the bowls sit, that way the ferrets can't get to the magnet. But it will help keep the bowls down!

I fill a box with these now. They can pick them up and hide them and kinda burrow and roll around in them, but they can't eat them. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N9H37Q2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_18V18NBDWEMD43YV73TH?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

MidWest Homes for Pets Deluxe Ferret Nation Small Animal Cages, Ferret Nation Cages Include 1-Year Manufacturing Warranty https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0054U8UGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FDFV9CT0CHC2EVXED2MH?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

it’s the ferret nation double unit! i’d shop around, most pet supply sites carry it and you can usually find it on sale. i think I paid $170 for mine! it is a great cage though

I have a mix of soft treats and chew sticks for him. Both of which I get on Amazon and he lives for them. He could be playing in his tunnel or wrestling with his favorite toy but as soon as he hears the bag he comes running lol

I usually give him half of the soft treats while putting it on and he gets the chew stick after

Soft Treats

Chew Sticks

Picked up a couple of these on Amazon. Can be cut down for shorter lengths or left full length. The weazels love them.

Long Tunnel

Maybe buy some bitter apple spray and spray around the corners and base of the bed to deter her from going on it/near it? It is safe and nontoxic, and although I haven't tried it myself I hear that ferrets really don't like it and avoid it like the plague. It's cheap and on Amazon as well.

I agree with lots of toys, but by nature ferrets just aren't good at staying on one thing for periods of time. That's why you should have lots of different toys, so she can cycle to the next thing. I got my ferrets a small ball pit to play in which they LOVE, but be warned - they like to steal the balls out of it ;) Do you have a tube for her to run around through? The tube keeps my most rambunctious baby occupied for more than any other toy.

It's a Midwest bowl! They're double the price in most stores, but on Amazon, they're decently cheap. I have a 10 oz for water, and a 20 oz for food!

I'd say either Wysong, raw, or most premium kitten food! From my knowledge Blue Buffalo works well if you're going the kitten food route, and can also be found at most pet stores easily (Or, if you're lucky, it can be found at a grocery store), Wysong is the best specifically ferret food I know of and can be found on Amazon ( https://www.amazon.com/Wysong-Ferret-Epigen-Digestive-Support/dp/B019W9VXZK/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=ferret&amp;qid=1554951902&amp;s=pet-supplies&amp;sr=1-2 ), and I'm afraid I know little to nothing about raw feeding. Hope this helped!

Amazon! Bueller managed to moonwalk his way out of his at first before I tightened it and he gave up |D Buy after a quick tightening to make sure he couldn't wiggle his elbows under it he was good to go. Now as a forewarning I have some CHONKY boys xD But these harnesses are on their (almost) biggest/loosest fit and they work so you should be able to get them pretty snug around smaller fluffs~

Links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005MXXFH0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_ySHTbQxYBv4yt (only comes in 1 color) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PKJ21XL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_27SzBNq79WjMb (comes in red or black)

Amazon Baby Gate This is the closest one I can find and it extends up to 62”! Ours fit through a double door entryway so hopefully it’ll fit whichever room you’re trying to close off.

Ferret Harness and Leash Adjustable, Sakura Cotton Cloth Ferret Walking Vest, Soft and Breathable Ferret Lead Leash with Angel Wings and Safe Bell https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DKCKS6T/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6qUyFbTYS9XQV

Papayas a fruit aint it? And if it is dont feed em that! They eat meat they may like the sugary taste but their stomachs dont causing health issues, and for the squeaking and hissing its just her wanting it, my ferret hisses when i steal her toys. Here is a good alternative treat option thats pure meat!

That’s good to hear 😊 If you end up getting the ferret nation cage it’s best to use fabric pan covers https://www.amazon.com/MidWest-Homes-Pets-Designer-Critter/dp/B07WVW7QVJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=K9DD3OSC0VU3&amp;keywords=ferret+nation+cage+liner&amp;qid=1671651775&amp;sprefix=ferret+nation+%2Caps%2C1645&amp;sr=8-5 rather then pet bedding as it falls out. And here’s a link to the litter box I use if you are interested https://www.petsmart.com/small-pet/litter-and-bedding/litter-pans/full-cheeks-small-pet-dry-paws-litter-pan-5319234.html?gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADiLNNlYgLg6Fn_71r-JiMzoHWQs_&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzt7-rbyL_AIVkjStBh1tLAbpEAQYASABEgIqfvD_BwE And if you don’t like the ferret nation cage then the Ferplast ferret tower is a good alternative cage. Hope this helped (:

Get a food bowl that attaches to the cage. This is the best one i could find and is the one I use. https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Stainless-Removable-Hanging-Perfect/dp/B01MRQXLFB/ref=mp_s_a_1_16?crid=C7DLS3V7QL8M&amp;keywords=ferret%2Bfood%2Bbowl&amp;qid=1671619373&amp;sprefix=ferret%2Bfood%2Bbo%2Caps%2C908&amp;sr=8-16&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1

Good luck 🍀

This is what my SO recommends: https://www.chewy.com/stella-chewys-chick-chick-chicken/dp/129981

Mix it with sodium free chicken broth in a blender. If she doesn't like the chicken broth, try mixing it with water. It should have a little liquid floating in it. It should be like a medium thick soup.

I'm assuming you aren't in the US, I'm not sure if the product I listed is available in your area.

Good luck!

Some folks swear by this chick waterer.
I've found that a low flat dish in a tray works fine, ferrets are smart, they soon figure out that playing in the water means there won't be any water. I found bowls with an inner rim and no skid bottom in the small animal section of Petsmart.

It took awhile before mine really liked it, I think they develop the taste. Most of ours do like Orijen Original Cat treats, they are all meat.

Its the best bowl set ever IMO it has an insert to keep them from digging in the water and making a mess i have 3 sets lol they are on Amazon i will put a link to them. They come in different colors and they are like 20$ but they are 16% at the time im writing this. Luck Dawn Double Dog Cat Bowls on Amazon here

Thematics sitting on is a padded play mat for babies. It’s able to be wiped clean, which is why I went with it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XP1F3PD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

https://smile.amazon.com/Ferret-Halloween-Costume-Silhouette-T-Shirt/dp/B08K2QNM5Y/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3UIFCS8SP3U9N&amp;keywords=ferret%2Bhalloween&amp;qid=1666809210&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiI0LjQ2IiwicXNhIjoiMy40NiIsInFzcCI6IjEuNTAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sprefix=ferret%2Bhalloween%2Caps%2C102&amp;sr=8-3&amp;customId=B0752XJYNL&amp;th=1

Link since OP didnt share

I use this litter for the ferrets…. for when they feel like using the litter box. 😜

https://www.chewy.com/naturally-fresh-pellet-unscented-non/dp/260175?utm_id=401602762&amp;msclkid=d8b773c91455104b7e341081d761da6f&amp;utm_source=bing&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=Shopping_NC_Cat_C_Litter_SSP&amp;utm_term=4585307092271818&a...

It's on amazon! It's perfect for preventing them from digging in their water bowls lol Luck Dawn Water and Food Bowl Set

They are Very poor substitutes, and I've seen Chinese companies on eBay call a cage Ferret Nation to fool the unwary, with pretty ridiculous looking cages. If you look closely at the pictures, the shelves do not reach across the full half of the cage like the Midwest.
Look for the Midwest badge on the top of the left door.

I figured out one way for a person to do a single FN at a bargain price.
Get the Add-On unit and the bottom tray. You won't have the rolling feature, but if you find a good used Single later, you just put them together for your double.

Right now that's $139 + 36 on Chewy, so $175 instead of $195. Right now you can save an extra $30:

Create an account on Chewy. Buy the add on first, use current coupon Spend $100, Get $30 eGift Card With Code: FALL2022 <b>It's only good through Oct 12.</b>
Then use your $30 gift card to order the tray separately.

Best graphic on Litter Training and I highly recommend the litter box mentioned over the "locking" types, which are a pain and break easily. You can drill holes and zip tie it to the bars.
Some ferrets hate eating out of a bowl where their whiskers touch the sides. A shallow wide bowl is better for them, but it's an instinct you can't really break, so use a shallow tray under your bowls for easier clean up.

This is our favorite bed, and so cheap that I just replace them.
I had to defer from potty pads for years because one of my girls would steal them and stash them, poopy and all. Are you sure they are actually eating the pellets, I've never had any do that.

Our 2 noodles love this malt paste, even more than salmon oil. https://www.amazon.com/Beaphar-Vitamin-Malt-Paste-Ferrets/dp/B00477NQF8

We also found some chew sticks for cats that are made only from meat and organs.

The doctor said she thought it was a bacterial infection and gave me a container of "DouxoS3 PYO" saying to wipe the affected area twice a day for 14 days.

It's since cleared up.

The same wipes I got at the vet also appear to be on Amazon, so it's not a prescription.

&#x200B;

https://www.amazon.com/Douxo-S3-PYO-Wipes-Count/dp/B09479CVXY

Funny! Someone sent my ferrets a Weasel Ball, and they had great fun with it, but it had to be supervised only because I had a shredder in the gang of seven.

https://www.amazon.com/mascotas-instantáneos-mantiene-desmontable-multifuncional/dp/B0B2S7YD93/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2TTNXZ8T8M188&amp;keywords=ramen+noodle+cat+bed&amp;qid=1664640891&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiI0LjYzIiwicXNhIjoiNC4wMiIsInFzcCI6IjIuNDEifQ%3D%...

The sub's wiki doesn't show it, (nor does it recommend both) but I've seen many ferret breeders and owners swear by this chick waterer as a safer alternative to small rodent style drip bottles.
They can lap up the water without resorting to biting the tip in frustration, and can't chew up the metal cup.

I have a pop up play pen I got off Amazon as a travel cage. I know that’s not going to do much for you now, but for future use. It’s not this exact one, but similar:

https://www.amazon.com/Zampa-Portable-Foldable-Exercise-Resistant/dp/B082BDBSDH/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=2Q2E5IV8MKFFF&amp;keywords=pop+up+playpen+animal&amp;qid=1664238050&amp;qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjk4IiwicXNhIjoiMi41MCIsInFzcCI6IjEuMDAifQ%3D%3D&amp;sp...

It held 3 of mine for a weekend visit to my sister. Not ideal, but easier than a full on cage.

skip the litter and use wee wee pads (dog training pads) if possible. These would work fine.

https://smile.amazon.com/BV-Training-RapidDry-Technology-100-Count/dp/B01MDSD2A6/?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_w=Pm17d&amp;content-id=amzn1.sym.811eb67e-e134-4990-8ade-bb9a2bfe5bfd&amp;pf_rd_p=811eb67e-e134-4990-8ade-bb9a2bfe5bfd&amp;pf_rd_r=489HYSHWGF3J0PE2X691&amp;pd_rd_wg=hVy6R&amp;pd_rd_r=22fbd24d-50e6-4579-b6e0-c016e6288b35&amp;ref_=pd_gw_trq_dl

just to touch on the water bowl tipping issue, this is the solution:

https://smile.amazon.com/MidWest-Homes-Pets-Stainless-Animals/dp/B0012GS73S/ref=rvi_sccl_12/145-1209039-9648329?pd_rd_w=6TWWE&amp;content-id=amzn1.sym.f5690a4d-f2bb-45d9-9d1b-736fee412437&amp;pf_rd_p=f5690a4d-f2bb-45d9-9d1b-736fee412437&amp;pf_rd_r=SGF1Z0F90JAAY3QZ9KKX&amp;pd_rd_wg=hocNh&amp;pd_rd_r=f97a8a94-4ffd-417d-9958-d82a5a9da6a1&amp;pd_rd_i=B0012GS73S&amp;psc=1

&#x200B;

They will still play in the water, but they won't be able to tip it over.

I have a ferret nation cage knock off from Amazon, paid about $150 for it, and have had it for 4 years now. This is the exact one I bought.

In addition, find your nearest Ferret Specialist, not just an exotic vet, as well as an emergency vet who will treat ferrets, because many dont. Program those numbers into your phone.
Set up an emergency kit and keep it on top of the cage, along with your essentials like nail clippers, etc.
Get a hard cat carrier with a good fasten and small bars for vet visits and vehicle transportation, they are safest in it.
The Marshall High Back Litter pans have been most successful for us. We use 100% hard wood stove pellets for litter, it's cheap enough to just dump the dirty sawdust and poop completely daily. ($5-6 for a 40# bag.)
They need more than hammocks for bedding, it's now recommended to have fleece blanket and cave-like beds so they can get a *minimum* of 14 hours of *total* darkness out of 24. This helps to develop the optimal hormonal levels to reduce the risk of adrenal disease. If you stay up late and have the cage in the room, invest in the cage cover so they can have the upper level in darkness. I prefer to put mine in the cage at night for sleeping, in case of storms,(I live in tornado region), fire or emergency, I know where everyone is and can grab them quickly.
Our vet uses enzymatic teeth cleaning gel rather than brushing, as their mouths are so small they don't tolerate teeth brushing well.

https://www.amazon.com/Ferret-Nation-3-Pack-Critter-Measures/dp/B00CMH9KQE

I’m not sure if these will fit yours size-wise, but you can google for more ferret ramp covers. A lot of people on Etsy make them.

I've seen the exit ramps but not shelf ramps directly from Midwest, but they don't seem to make the open ramps anymore due to them being too likely to cause injuries.
I either use clear tubes, or add an additional shelf on each level so they can jump down, it worked well with my elders.

Eliminate corners by piling sleep bedding and toys in them. Use bigger square litter boxes with a low front lip.
Don't try discipline or punishment, that doesn't work well with ferrets and only confuses them. Never "boop" a ferret on the nose, their sinus bones are fragile.
Keep in mind training is more akin to potty training a toddler than litter training a kitten. When they are young, they don't have much control and go to the quickest suitable place. You just have to keep at it with time, persistence and patience, just like toddlers.

Tubing! Cheapest route is black drainage tubing from the hardware store 4" is perfect for most.
If you prefer clear, this duct tubing works great and lasts longer than Marshall's, although it has to be aired out well in the sun to get the off gas from the plastic out.

Yep, get rid of the water bottles asap. If you're concerned about a mess, try these:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0012GS73S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1

I had a similar issue, so I found some bowls that would work in the cage. I had a set when I lived in the U.S., and had to order a new set when I moved to Germany they both worked very well.

For Europe:

Dog Water Bowl, Cage Type Water... https://www.amazon.de/dp/B08LKX9RJR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

For the U.S. (only thing I did was use a binder clip on the rim of the bowl, they couldn’t flip it out of the holder)

Crate Dog Bowl Removable... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RGBCX58?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Furry Freshness, my friend. We have 4 ferrets, 3 of which are only sorta litter-trained. So we get a lot of poop in the corners. This stuff is seriously like magic. I spray it on the carpet stain and it's gone in a few hours. No vacuuming, no scrubbing, just spray and forget.

I've always had cats my whole life and as anyone with cats knows, they occasionally vomit. I've tried just about every enzyme carpet cleaner on the market and this is the only one that really, really works.

Agree, they start to gnaw because they are frustrated at not getting enough water.
There are chick waterers that have a tiny bowl on the end that have seemed to work well for some folks with bowl problems.
Have you seen any issues with those, just curious?

Something like these may work? This is the one I saw so far that had decent reviews. Only downside is they might be able to climb the mesh even if it's got very tight weaving, or squeeze underneath it if the screen isn't taut.

THIS ONE may work for your needs specifically, too, granted the correct side is facing out (it seems there's a middle bar on one of the sides?) but it seems like the best bet for function and how flush it is in most directions

My girl does this when she wakes up from her naps. Covering her cage helps, as it usually communicates to her that it's sleep time and reduces her frustration of being able to see places she can't get to because of the cage bars.

If the noise is keeping you awake, this is one of the best investments I ever made, even before I brought my ferret home: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SHBQY7Z?psc=1&amp;ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

Has, like, a 9 hour consecutive charge, charges in 1.5 hours, and is very comfortable as a sleep mask. I put it on with some lo-fi beats or white noise for sleep, and I'm usually out in 15 minutes compared to, like... An hour. Your mileage may vary, but it does help blot out unnecessary noise while not being so loud that you couldn't hear important things like alarm clocks, etc.

I’m sure getting the spleen out will help. I’d ask the vet about getting him an adrenal implant when he’s already under for the surgery. Adrenal is a common cause of an enlarged spleen, and he’s about the right age to start showing symptoms. And if he doesnt have it yet, it will help keep it at bay, since the implant is both a preventative and treatment. Keep an eye on his sugars too. I’d suggest getting a home blood sugar testing kit to have on hand so you can watch it, since he’s about that age for that too.

Here is a link to the “go to” blood glucose monitor for animals. It’s the one I’ve had for years, and it’s pretty easy to use. Just make sure to use the “dog” testing strips code, not the “cat” one.

You're welcome! I have drinkers who like to dunk their entire heads in the water, or shake it off their whiskers, so I'm unsure about his drinking behavior. If you want to try it, this is a popular &quot;water bottle&quot; that gives them enough to drink at a time, (unlike the rodent bottles with the ball end that seems to frustrate them because they can't get enough and bite at it).

We got it from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/BestPet-Teal-Posh-Pet-Stroller/dp/B00AK7XIT8/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=1BBV3018OKWLE&amp;keywords=bestpet+pet+stroller&amp;qid=1657592985&amp;sprefix=bestpet+%2Caps%2C138&amp;sr=8-3 Thats the link since I can't post the picture sorry 😐

Are you feeding dry food? I wonder if something like a seed feeder would work.

https://www.amazon.com/Dispenser-Parakeet-Drinker-Canaries-Capacity%EF%BC%882-36oz%EF%BC%89/dp/B08532ZXHT/ref=sr\_1\_18?keywords=bird+seed+feeders+for+cages&amp;qid=1656620654&amp;sr=8-18

A playpen can be a really helpful for me when i’m just super busy or need to clean my room so if that’s an option for you i would look into it. The one i linked is the one i use since they can’t chew/dig through it but there’s lots of good options!!

HEYHOME Small Animal Playpen... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B9QTFV4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

hi so this one i bought from my local pet store doesn’t stick to the floor and i have already witnessed the little monsters dragging it around but i believe you can get suction cup ones like this one for example

Something like this https://www.amazon.com/Koolatron-P75-36-Quart-Electric-Cooler/dp/B0001MQ7E0/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?keywords=12+volt+coolers+for+truckers&amp;qid=1656193865&amp;sr=8-9

Also called Peltier coolers I believe. We bought ours at a highway truck stop in south Florida.

Wrong litter pan, wrong litter, wrong placement, wrong presentation.

FIRST: Lay down one of those doggy wee-wee pads in the corner. This establishes a “perimeter” that they’ll explore and come to understand. And if they decide to violate that perimeter it’s an easier clean-up.

SECOND: Get rid of that litter box. Ferrets like clearly defined spaces. The sloping sides of that one makes it difficult for them to distinguish between “in” and “out”. Buy this one instead. With the smaller, low-lipped opening and the high walls all around, it’s an excellent space for them to do their business.

THIRD: Don’t leave an open space in the corner behind it like you have in your photo. Corner of the litter box goes in the corner of the room. The opening to the litter pan should be towards their most likely approach; if there’s more space to the left then the opening points left, if there’s more space “down” (going by the pic) then the opening should point down.

FOURTH: Yesterday’s News (the litter you’re using) is shite. Use SwheatScoop instead. It’s 100% safe for ferrets, very low dust, completely biodegradable, and can be flushed down the toilet. As a bonus, it clumps.

FINALLY: If your guys continue to poop outside the box as described above, get yourself a sheet of corrugated plastic from Amazon or your local craft store, cut it to size as a cover for the top of the box, and attach it in place with some strong tape or hot glue making the box “fully” enclosed.

I’ve had ferrets for most of the past 30 years of my life and I’ve found phenomenal success with this approach. Good luck.

I also found some cooling blankets, something like this?

I've never used one but my coworker recently got one for their dog and suggested it to me.

I bought 2 Pawhut brand cages. 50” tall. 4 tiers. I got one on Amazon, and the other from Overstock. (One for my house, and I liked it enough when I needed to buy one for overnights at my other half’s house, I wanted the same one again) $200. I like that I can set them up an upstairs to keep dark. And downstairs for light. And there are three other small tiers throughout.

This is the exact same one I bought from a different seller and it’s only $160. It works for us. I have two ferrets. They are in there when I work, and when we go to bed. Other than that, the house is fair game.

https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Deluxe-Hammock-Removable-Flannel/dp/B09P67847M/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?crid=WCREOJK9OQHG&amp;keywords=ferret+cage&amp;qid=1655255128&amp;sprefix=ferret+cage%2Caps%2C128&amp;sr=8-8

https://www.chewy.com/midwest-nation-bottom-unit-ferret/dp/249397

If you get the chance (I'm sure getting 3 ferrets unexpectedly has had some unexpected starter costs) you can just buy a floor replacement. If you go down to "compare similar items" you can get the one for the second floor with the ramp opening. They're not that pricey and it's definitely worth it. Easy clean ups

door sweeps are a ferret parents best friend :)

I can’t find the exact one I have, but I got my guys a cooling mat like this one. They LOVE it! :)

All the other cooling mats I’ve found before just use a cooling gel, which isn’t that effective imo. This style is similar to a hot water bottle, only you fill it with cool water &/or ice cubes. I’d highly recommend if the temp is climbing where you live.

Unfortunately that won't help with Stolas! He's so big I need a minimum of a 5" high barrier to stop him from pooping through the cage bars! I use large washable puppy pads that would work....if they'd actually leave it be and not claw down the corners to poop behind the pad every damn night. I'd leave them out but for some reason all their litter training disappears after 11pm and I'll have 20 poops on my carpet by morning.

I really wish I could go back in time and get the Ferplast cage instead of the Ferret Nation one. Those deep cage pans would be such a blessing right now! I've got too many for a two story cage atm, but once I'm down to a more manageable number (as morbid as that is, I've got 3 girls over 7, it won't be long) I'm switching to that one!

This one is not so much a gate, but a free-standing fence. I have two of them that I use for both of my boys. It's too heavy for them to move, the space between bars is way to small for ferrets to slip through, and they are vertical so they can't be climbed! Only downside is they are a bit on the pricy side.

WELLAND Wooden Freestanding Pet... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07THJL3MC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I'll have to try those. I was stressing out at first because all the toys I bought them just got ignored... it took me a while to find things they liked.

They really like anything that moves, but not too fast. Especially this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G84SRTJ

Also, Biggie loves biting into plastics balls, so I got him these instead and he LOVES them: https://www.walmart.com/ip/376027168

Does popping the cushion packs not scare her???

I drive between New Hampshire and Georgia with my 2 ferrets occasionally. It’s a 2 day drive and I put them in this cage when driving,

PawHut 2-Level Small Animal Cage Rabbit Hutch with Wheels, Removable Tray, Platform and Ramp for Bunny, Chinchillas, Ferret, Hedgehog & Gerbils, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07J65CSKX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_T8686ND8W5S1QCA930KZ?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

It fits in the back seat of my car, and can fit a litter box, food and water bowls, a bed and blankets on the floor, and 2 or 3 hammocks. Mine usually sleep most of the time, and I don’t really stop very much for them. I just make sure I play with them before we leave and after we get there. I think you could definitely fit 4 ferrets in here as long as it’s just for the day. Plus if you wanted to, when you get to your new home, you can get a piece of wood and lay it across the top and use it as a side table. Mine is in my room and the ferrets can go in and out if they want to sleep in there, and I store all their food and stuff on top.

Oh man! I found the best thing to put on that bottom rack of the cage! Amazon Basics Padded Pet Bolster... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FW76BG9?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It fits on ther and prevents poop accidents! I just throw a blanket on top too. I actually put one under that bottom rack as well. That way I don't get any sneaky stealth poops!

I don’t know if you mean a carrier for short drives, or a small cage for a long trip, but I occasionally drive from Georgia to New Hampshire (a 2 day drive) with my 2 ferrets. When I do that I use this cage

PawHut 2-Level Small Animal Cage Rabbit Hutch with Wheels, Removable Tray, Platform and Ramp for Bunny, Chinchillas, Ferret, Hedgehog & Gerbils, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07J65CSKX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H7T3WSSRHXT0AXGZH9VF?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1

It fits in the back seat of my car fairly easily, and it can fit food and water bowls, a litter box, a bed on the floor, and 2 or 3 hammocks. Obviously it’s not a lot of space for them to play, but no travel cage is, and at least they have plenty of places to sleep!

I personally love this one. Food and water, and it’s super anti-splash!! Plus, you can fill the bottle and although I try to change it everyday so they have fresh water, at least if they forget the ferrets will still have water :)

Double Dog Cat Bowls Water and... https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B086ZMMV72?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

2-in-1 Double Pet Carrier i’m not sure if this provides adequate air flow, but this looks pretty spacious! i’m not entirely sure if it’s safe, but it is a pet carrier lol