husbandry of diverse small carnivores

Question 1

characteristics of ferrets

Answer 1

domesticated small mustelid - derived from polecats
diet = rabbits, rodents, amphibians, birds
adaptable predator - wide range of habitats
vermin control
females (jills) smaller than males (hobs)
lifespan = 6-12 years old

Question 2

behaviour of ferrets

Answer 2

easily tamed with regular handling - can give sharp bite
highly inquisitive
sleep 18-20 hours - need safe resting and hiding places = dark and enclosed
social housing recommended
scent and vocal communication important - anal glands emit foul smell when frightened

Question 3

ferret outdoor housing

Answer 3

outdoor systems provide greatest space, opportunities for enrichment, natural light cycles.
compartmentalised spaces

Question 4

indoor ferret housing

Answer 4

minimum 10m2 required for daily exercise outside cage

Question 5

housing considerations for ferrets

Answer 5

susceptible to damp and heat stroke - no sweat glands
-ideal 15-24 degrees
-well ventilated
should be enclosed - they can escape easily - need solid floors and ladders/tubes provided for getting around
need dry separate enclosed nest area for sleeping - raised off ground, out of direct sunlight
need enrichment - tubes, boxes, toys
water for drinking/paddling
clean toilet daily - separated from other areas.

Question 6

ferret diet

Answer 6

• very short GI tract, simple gut microflora, transit time 3-4hrs
• strict carnivore, need high concentration of fat + easily digestible meat-based protein
• lactose intolerant, vomit readily, eat little and often
• bones and raw food diet
• fresh water always available
• can have high quality cat food

Question 7

ferret reproduction

Answer 7

40-44days gestation period
6-9 kits of 8-10kg
eyes open from 4 weeks
dam provides meat to kits from 4-5weeks
6-8wks weaned
puberty at 9-12 months old
jill requires 14h light period to breed (march to sept) induced ovulators
serious problem for intact females not mated due to continuous high oestrogen