April 2nd is Ferret Day! Ferrets are very fun pets. They do need quite a bit of attention, however. You’ll need to provide your ferret with fresh food, water, and bedding; keep up with their veterinary care; and regularly retrieve your valuables from their stash. You’ll also need to groom your pet regularly. A local Ellicott City, MD vet offers a few ferret beauty care tips in this article.
Brushing
Brushing your ferret regularly will remove any dead fur from their coat. We recommend using a soft-bristled brush. Pick a time when your pint-sized pal is feeling relaxed and cuddly, and work in praise, cuddles, and perhaps a small treat.
Bathing
You’ll need to bathe your tiny furball occasionally. This will not only keep them clean, it will also help with that musky odor ferrets get. Use shampoos made specifically for ferrets. Be careful not to get any suds in your pet’s eyes, ears, nose, or mouth! However, don’t think bathing your pet more often than recommended will result in less odors. In fact, the opposite may happen. This may dry your ferret’s skin out, which will make it produce more of that musky oil.
Teeth
Dental care is just as important for pets as it is for people! Brushing your ferret’s teeth regularly will help prevent issues. This will be easiest if you can get your pet used to having his teeth brushed when he’s still a kit. However, you can still train an adult ferret. Just be gentle and patient, and incorporate treats and praise. Use a pet toothbrush and toothpaste. Pay extra attention to the back teeth, as these can be problematic.
Ears
Keeping your ferret’s ears clean is also very important. Ferrets are prone to getting ear mites and ear infections. Ask your vet to recommend a good ear-cleaning solution. Put just a little of it into your ferret’s ears. Then, gently massage the ears to loosen dirt, wax, and debris. Use a Q-tip to remove everything. (Note: you should never use Q-tips on other pets. This is only safe for ferrets because of the way their ear canals are shaped.)
Pawdicure
You’ll also need to clip your ferret’s claws, as otherwise they may snag and tear on things. Ask your vet to demonstrate proper techniques.
Do you have questions about ferret care? Contact us, your local Ellicott City, MD vet clinic, today!
