Ferrets are becoming more common as pets in Ireland, but keeping them in a way that suits their natural behaviour takes a bit of thought. If their living conditions are not right, they can develop serious behavioural problems, including aggression and biting.

It is important to remember that ferrets are not rodents. They belong to the mustelid family and are carnivores. Their diet needs to be made up mostly of animal ingredients. More than anything, ferrets need plenty of space and stimulation, as they are nearly always on the move. A roomy enclosure is essential, and ferrets should never be kept on their own. They always need at least one companion.

Ferrets are very social animals and enjoy the company of their own kind. A ferret kept alone can become lonely and may develop behavioural issues, so keeping two or more together is strongly advised.

A male and a female can live together happily as long as breeding is managed properly. If you do not want kits, it is best to speak with a vet about the most suitable option, such as neutering or hormonal treatment. Two females or two neutered males usually get along well. Unneutered males tend to be very territorial, which can lead to serious conflict.

Housing guidelines generally recommend a minimum of six square metres of floor space for a pair of ferrets, with an extra square metre for each additional animal. This is the absolute minimum. More space is always better. If you keep more than two ferrets, extra room becomes even more important. A cage should never replace daily free roaming. It is mainly a place for resting, sleeping and feeding.

An enclosure with at least two levels works well, as ferrets love climbing. You will need food bowls, a sturdy water bowl, hiding places, climbing opportunities and secure resting spots.

Mental and physical stimulation is just as important as space. Ferrets love digging, searching, tugging and carrying things around. Dig boxes filled with suitable low dust material, tunnels, hammocks, branches, roots and puzzle toys are all great choices. Many ferrets adore cardboard boxes, paper and toilet roll tubes that they can tear apart. Always make sure there are no small pieces they could swallow and avoid unsafe materials such as soft plastics or foam.

For sleeping, a fabric lined box or a sheltered sleeping house with a wide enough entrance works very well. Ferrets often sleep together, but it is still a good idea to provide as many sleeping spots as there are ferrets, so each one has a place to retreat if needed.

Cleanliness is also very important. Ferrets are naturally tidy and tend to use the same spots as toilets. A litter tray with suitable low dust litter is recommended. In larger enclosures or when keeping several ferrets, more than one litter tray can be very helpful.

Even with a large enclosure, ferrets need several hours of free roaming every day. Make sure your home, or the area where they are allowed to explore, is fully ferret proofed. Cables, poisonous plants, gaps, tilt and turn windows, sharp objects and small items that could be swallowed are all potential dangers. Fragile items should be kept well out of reach, as ferrets are extremely curious and determined.

Ferrets can also be kept outdoors, but outdoor housing must be secure, weather resistant and well protected. Shaded areas, good ventilation, insulated shelters and protection from damp, draughts, extreme heat and cold are all essential. Outdoor keeping requires more experience and is usually better suited to owners who are already familiar with ferret care.