Yes they do.  Its a musky kind of odor that can be dimed down with neutering and feeding a proper diet. 

 

Can ferrets come when called like dogs?

 

Sometimes.  But ferrets would rather explore then come when called.  Although they do learn their names, I wouldn't ever let your ferret loose outside with out a leash and harness on.

 

Are ferrets expensive to own?

 

They can be.  Since they are prone to adrenal, they can be pricy after 4 years old for treatment.  Good quality food can be expensive. 

 

Do ferrets bite?

 

Ferrets are like puppies, they mouth when young.  Nips can hurt.  They must be taught when young not to bite.  The easiest way to do this is to scruff the ferret and drag him around on the carpet lightly.  Doing this a couple times usually curbs the naughty habbit.  Adult ferrets can bite out of fear or dominance.  Some prefer their space to not be touched, in that case, you should mind their space. 

 

Do ferrets need vaccinations?

 

If you plan to take your ferret outside or to meet other ferrets then yes.  They would need a distemper shot and a rabies.

 

Do ferrets walk on leashes?

 

Yes.  They can be trained to walk on a leash, its a good way to explore the world

 

Do ferrets swim?

 

Most do.  Some even like to dive under the water like otters.

 

Can ferrets see and hear well?

 

A ferrets vision is blurred.  They see better up close which is why its important to not allow your ferret to climb high without a easy way back down.  They have bad depth perception because of this.  They have great hearing. 

 

Can I go on vacation for a week, leave out food and water and he will be fine?

 

No.  Ferrets need daily interaction.  They also need their litter boxes cleaned out daily.  Be sure to hire a ferret knowlodge caretaker.

 

Do ferrets get along with other animals?

 

Most do.  The question is, do other pets get along with them?  I would never put a rodent or bird with a ferret since ferrets were bred to hunt these types of animals.  My ferrets love to play with 3 of my 4 dogs.  They often jump up their legs and tackle them.  My other dog on the other hand has killed a ferret before.  Kittens enjoy playing with ferrets, but since cats are independent as they age, they tend to not like the bother.

 

Do Ferrets make noise?

 

Yes.  Its not the kind of noise to disturb the neighbors though.  When they get excited, you will hear a faint "duck duck duck duck" noise while bouncing around.  If you were to accidently step on one they let out a louder "duck duck" noise.  Other then that, the only noise you hear is the noise of garbage can tipping over. 

 

Are ferrets rodents?

 

No.  They are a member of the Mustelidae.  This family also includes badger, wolverine, sea otter and skunk.  They are more like dogs and cats then a hamster.

 

Are ferrets legal everywere?

 

Currently ferrets are illegal to own in California and Hawaii.  Some cities require a license to own a ferret.  If you were caught owning a ferret in these states, you will be fined and the ferret will be taken away from you.  Most likely euthanized.

 

Can I feed my ferret dog or cat food?

 

They cannot be fed any type of dog food.  The only cat food that I recomend is California Natural Cat & kitten.  It has the correct protein & fat levels and better ingredients then most ferret foods.  Other cat foods do not have the correct ingredients or protein/fat levels a ferret requires.

 

Do ferrets get along with each other?

 

Most of the time yes.  Some ferrets are grouchy and do not like the company of another.  So if you are looking for a buddy for your current fuzz, take him with you to pick out his new best friend.  Most pet shops will not allow you to do this.  So you would be gamabling buying one from a pet shop.  Most ferrets perfer to have a buddy or live in a group.  Its best to get two of the same age.  If you get a kit and you have an older ferret, they may not play with each other or interact. 

 

My ferret smells.  Can I bathe him?

 

Yes.  But never bathe a ferret more then twice a year.  Bathing strips the natural oils and only causes the odor to come back again.  Your ferret will also have a very dull coat if bathed too often.  Only bathe your ferret if he is really dirty.