Husbandry of exotic small carnivores Flashcards
What animal are ferrets derived from?
Polecats.
They are domesticated small mustelids
What does the diet of the polecat consist of?
Rabbits (85%)
Rodents
Amphibians
Birds (including game birds)
Earthworms
What are ferrets often kept as?
Vermin control (rabbits, rats)
Companion animals
What features allow ferrets to get into confined spaces/tunnels?
Tubular body and short limbs
What problems do albino ferrets often have?
Sight/hearing problems
What is the size difference between male and female ferrets?
Males = 45-60cm
Females = 30-42cm
What is the name used for a male ferret?
Hob
What is the name used for a female ferret?
Jill
What is the lifespan of a ferret?
6-12 years
When do ferrets become sexually mature?
A year after birth
How long do ferrets sleep for per day?
18-20 hours
When are ferrets most active?
At dusk they are highly explorative and playful
Where does the scent of a ferret come from?
Skin and anal glands
What do ferrets require when housed?
Need safe resting and hiding places that are dark and enclosed
Require high level of enrichment to stimulate activity and interest - prone to boredom
Compartmentalised spaces = sleeping, latrine, food storage larder, multiple escape holes
What weather conditions are ferrets susceptible to?
Damp and heat stroke
Don’t thrive about 30 degrees Celsius (no sweat glands in skin)
Ideal temperatures = 15-24 degrees
Need well ventilated, dry, draught-free