Ferrets, like most animals have their own specific dietary requirements. They are
obligate carnivores and their good health depends on the quality of their diet.
They have such a rapid metabolism and wake up to eat about every four hours. Fresh
water and food should always be readily available for them.
Cat and dog foods are inappropriate for ferrets and should not be fed under any
circumstances.
Ferrets require a concentrated diet to receive all the calories and nutrients they need
to stay fit and healthy as they never eat huge amounts in one go. A ferret’s diet
should be high in protein and energy, and low in fibre.
It is important to feed your ferret correctly from an early age.
Feeding a high quality dry ferret food is ideal for keeping teeth clean and can make
their faeces less smelly.
Be aware that some feeds contain high quantities of fish oil and by-products. These
types of feed are soft and can cause plaque and tartar to build up on your ferret’s
teeth.
It is also important to know that vitamin supplements are not necessary if the ferrets
are fed a high quality food. However, many ferrets love ‘Linatone’ and it is an excellent
treat for good behaviour or as a distraction when it comes to clipping nails.
If a fresh food is fed then there may be the need to supplement with vitamins and
minerals which can be tricky to calculate deficiencies or toxicities.
A carbohydrate rich diet is not needed by ferrets and they are considered to be more
likely to develop insulinoma, which is cancer of the pancreas if they have too much
carbohydrate. However, oil content in feed is essential for healthy skin and a shiny
coat, along with calcium and phosphorous to ensure healthy gums and teeth.
