You have many options when it comes to choosing the right companion for you, no matter if your home is large or small. Ferrets are popular pets and can be very rewarding, provided they are kept in a happy environment. They can be quite expensive in terms of annual and initial costs.
Pet costs can quickly mount, whether it’s for the right set-up, food, or vet visits. Ferrets are no exception. You should also be prepared for the unexpected, especially in emergency situations that can be expensive. For more information about the cost of owning a ferret, please read this article.
A one-time cost to bring home a new ferret
There are some costs that you should consider when bringing home a ferret. You should be ready to pay fees and a price, regardless of whether you are getting a ferret free of charge, buying one from a breeder who is reputable, or adopting one from a shelter.
The total cost of an adoption can be affected by many factors including the ferret’s age, health, and fees for shelter. Adoption and ethical shopping can be costly, with the exception of free ferrets. Let’s take an in-depth look at each option to determine the possible costs.
No cost
Ferrets are often impulse-purchased, leaving them with uncertain futures. Many ferrets are offered for free via Facebook, Craigslist, and Instagram because of last-minute purchases. Although it might seem more economical for you, there is always the risk of getting your pet free on the internet.
Uncertainty about the origins of the ferret can also be a problem. This could lead to undiagnosed genetic health problems in the future. Adopting or purchasing a ferret from a trusted breeder is a safer option.
Asking your family and friends if they are interested in rehoming a ferret is the exception to the rule. Although there are still risks to health and genetics, it is still better than finding a stranger online.
Adoption
Adoption is a great option to adopt a ferret, particularly if you can find a rescue for ferrets in your area. Ferret rescues can help you find a ferret to match your personality and lifestyle while buying a ferret will not.
A ferret rescue can also be a great option if you don’t want to buy one. Adoptable ferrets are usually comfortable with people or can be held comfortably without any problems.
Adoption is cheaper than buying a ferret from a breeder. Ferret prices are usually between $150 and 200. Adoption is almost always cheaper than a breeder and helps to support rescue ferrets, which are usually run by volunteers and donations.
Breeder
A breeder can purchase a ferret, which is great because pet shops rarely vet their kit for behavioral and genetic issues. Pet stores often don’t realize that a ferret can be deaf. This can pose problems for the first ferret owner. A breeder can help you shop ethically and also tell you where your ferret was born.
There are many breeders of ferrets, but most states have at minimum one. Adopting a ferret is a better choice than trying to find one locally. Adopting a pet is the last resort.
Although it is the best option, ferrets purchased through breeders are usually the most costly. A kit (a baby ferret), will cost between $100 and 500. An adult ferret will cost between $100 and 300. Although they are cheaper than breeders, pet stores often sell them at a lower price.
The Most Popular Types Of Ferrets and Average Price from a Breeder (Lowest To Highest)
| Sable | $100-200 |
| Black Sable | $100-200 |
| Albino | $100-200 |
| Champagne | $150-300 |
| Chocolate | $150-300 |
| Cinnamon | $150-400 |
Stock
Although the cost of buying/adopting ferrets may seem very low, there are still many things that you will need to purchase when your ferret is first adopted. While some items are a one-time expense, others can be recurring monthly or annually. It is important to invest in your ferret because you want it to thrive and survive in its new home. Even though it can be expensive, pets are not cheap. This is a list of the supplies you will need and their prices before you bring your ferret home.
Cost and a list of Ferret Care Supplies
| Ferret Cage | $50 – $300 |
| Litter Pans | $10 – $40 |
| Litter | $15 – 30 (Monthly) |
| Ferret Food | $10 – 50 (Monthly) |
| Nail Clippers | $5 – 15 |
| Ferret Cage Hammocks | $10 – 30 |
| Water and Food Dishes | $10 – 20 |
| Vet Checkups | $100-300* (Annual) |
| Vaccines | $20 – 150 (Annual) |
| Ferret Toys | $20-50 (Semi-annual) |
| Carrier | $20-60 |
| Collar/Harness | $20-50 |
| Ferret-safe shampoo | $5 -10 (Annual) |
| Toothpaste and Ferret Toothbrush | $10-20 (Semi-Annual) |
Prices for *-vets can vary depending upon medical conditions and whereabouts.
Annual Expenses
- $250-600 per annum
Because you don’t have to purchase a new cage or other items each year, annual expenses are less than startup costs. The economy and other factors such as multiple vet visits and medication will affect how much your annual expenses. The average annual cost for a ferret is between $250 and $600. This includes both monthly and annual expenses. Your annual expenses will be lower if your ferret’s health is good and he doesn’t require frequent visits to the vet. Keep in mind that these are just average costs and can rise to $500.
Health Care
- $100-300 per annum
You will need to check your ferret twice a year. These can include bloodwork, vaccinations, and x-rays to make sure your ferret is healthy. Routine checks are usually annual and cost between $100-300. However, if there is a health problem, it may be more costly. Ferrets should be vaccinated every year and given booster shots to prevent distemper or rabies. Treatments such as dental cleaning and parasite prevention can be costly.
Check-Ups
- $50-100 per annum
Although annual checkups are not expensive, some vets charge more for exotic pets and small animals. A ferret’s annual checkup may include x-rays, bloodwork, stool sampling testing, and cleaning of the teeth. Depending on the severity of the medical condition, your visit may cost more. To ensure your ferret’s health, you should see it at least once per year.
Vaccinations
- $15-20 per year
Ferrets, like dogs and cats, need to be vaccinated every year. Your ferret will need to be vaccinated annually if it is still a kitten. There will be three booster shots every 8 weeks, 12, and 20 weeks. Then, you can continue the annual vaccinations. These vaccines are used to prevent distemper, which can be fatal, and rabies, which can also be contagious to humans. Even though ferrets are small, they need to be taken care of, including vaccines.
Dental
- $10-50 per annum
Your ferret’s teeth must be kept clean and free of buildup. This can lead to dental decay. While your vet should perform an annual cleaning, it is highly recommended that you clean your ferret’s teeth at home twice per month. Although it is difficult to do, it is essential to maintain your ferret’s teeth with regular maintenance. Plaque and tartar can be prevented by using a soft-bristle cat brush or a rubber finger toothbrush.
Treatments for Parasites
- $10-30 per Year
Heartworm can infect not only dogs and cats but also ferrets and small animals. Ask your vet how to treat heartworm. Your vet will be able to give you a variety of preventatives such as chewable tabs and pills.
Emergencies
- $100-500+/year
Even the most cautious animal owners are not immune to emergencies. Ferrets are curious creatures that fit in the smallest spaces. It’s not surprising that they can be seriously injured. There are also health problems that can be more costly than annual care. A simple checkup at a 24-7 emergency hospital can cost a lot, not to mention the costs of x-rays or any other medical treatment. It is important to plan for emergency visits to the vet hospital.
For ongoing conditions, Medications
- Unknown
Even with well-bred ferrets, medical conditions can occur. Treatments for medical conditions can be costly, especially if they are life-threatening. The cost of medications will vary depending on your ferret’s health and ability to heal. There is no way to know how much medication you will need because certain medicines can be very expensive. We’ve already mentioned that it is important to have enough money for your ferret in case of an emergency or for future conditions.
Food
- $50-100 per annum
Due to their short digestive period, ferrets will need food at all times. This is similar to rabbits or guinea pigs. Ferrets are small and can eat a lot of ferret food. Ferret food will cost between $15-20 per month. Premium diets are more expensive. Although most ferret kibble can be used, your vet will recommend the best food for your pet.
Environment Maintenance
- $35-50/year
It is vital to keep your ferret’s enclosure clean. They can suffer from breathing problems if the cage is not kept clean. To keep your ferret’s enclosure clean, you can use litter box liners, a vacuum, and pet-safe wipes. The cage should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice a week. You also need to empty the litter pans once per day. To keep your hammocks clean, you should wash them once a month with a non-toxic detergent.
| Litter pan liners | $18/year |
| Deodorizing sprays or granules | $20/year |
| Cage wipes | $10/month |
| Hand Vacuum | $35 |
Entertainment
- $15-50/year
Ferrets can get bored quickly so it is important to purchase toys and other items for them to entertain themselves. Ferrets love to play in tubes and cat toys. You might consider buying a few tunnels or a puzzle toy for your ferret. Ferrets are smart and will work hard to get a treat. The runner ball you place your ferret in or the hamster wheel is not recommended as they can cause damage to their spines.
Total Cost to Own a Ferret
$250-600 per annum
Even though they are small, ferrets are expensive to keep. Although the average annual cost of a ferret can be more than $600 per year, it will still be less than the initial setup costs, the ferret, and the first vet exam. Annual costs can add up over time so it is important to have enough money to keep your ferret happy and healthy. You should wait until your finances are more stable before you invest in a pet.
A Ferret on a Budget
It’s possible to have a ferret even if you don’t have the most expensive equipment. You don’t have to spend thousands to ensure your ferret thrives, as long as you can afford vet visits, food and litter. If your finances are not strong enough to support a ferret, it may not be the right choice. A ferret is generally less expensive than a cat or dog as long as you can provide primary care and food needs.
Ferret Care: Saving Money
Preventing medical problems is the best way to save on ferret care. These are the most costly part of owning a pet. Your monthly and annual care costs will be lower if you take care of your ferret’s dental needs at home and use parasitic prevention medications. It’s cheaper and easier to prevent than treat health problems, just like humans. Talk to your vet if you are concerned about vet bills rising.
Conclusion
A ferret is a unique and popular pet that can make your life more enjoyable. Ferrets, like any other animal, can be costly. Ferrets require a lot of care, from regular vet visits to three-story cages. Their care can quickly become costly. Ferrets are more expensive than small animals so make sure you have the financial means to afford one. This guide can help you get an idea of the cost of a ferret.
Are ferrets a simple pets? Are ferrets suitable as pets?
They are lively, inquisitive, and fun-loving pets who are very social. This means they can make excellent pets, but they are difficult to handle and can bite hard if startled. As a result, they are not always suitable as pets for children.
Will you be bitten by a ferret?
Although the vast majority of ferrets are friendly and lovable, some may annoy humans by nipping. A problem ferret may also be labeled as a “bad biter.” However, there is hope for such problem ferrets because a lot of love, training, and patience can lead to reform!
Do ferrets lose their teeth?
Teething: Ferrets, like puppies and kittens, will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth emerge. This process is usually completed by nine months of age, so if your ferret is young, it may bite because its gums are sore.
Do ferrets have feelings for their owners?
Ferrets are loyal, affectionate, friendly, and intelligent. Fans of ferrets adore their spunky, playful, and friendly personalities. They are also devoted to their owners.
Is a ferret bite painful?
It’s worth noting that ferret skin is thicker and tougher than human skin, so when ferrets nip at each other during play, there’s no real pain involved. However, when they nip at a human, it can be painful.
Are ferrets friendly?
Ferrets are social, friendly, and adorable. Having more than one pet ferret is often recommended (though not required). Having two or more ferrets increases the fun factor for both the owner and the ferrets because they will interact and play together, sometimes with zeal.
Are ferrets simple to train?
Ferrets are very trainable, and if you’re patient, they’ll be no more difficult to train than a cat. The most common mistake, however, is assuming that ferrets, like cats, will naturally use the litter box. This is not correct.
What do ferrets consume?
Ferrets are carnivorous animals. They hunt and eat whole animals in the wild, which include raw meat, raw bones, other tissue, and digested vegetable matter. They must consume meat/animal products that are high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber.
Is it better to have two ferrets or just one?
Ferrets do not do well alone and should be kept in groups or pairs. They frequently engage in impromptu play, charging around their enclosure and springing at each other. One thing is certain: when they sleep, they always choose to snuggle together in a big pile.