A lot of people think furnishing a ferret cage is really no big deal.
Just buy any old box, add a water bottle and a food dish, and voila! But there's a lot more to it than that.
A ferret cage must be properly designed, set up, and furnished - right down to the bedding.
1.
Walls/floors/windows - Most experienced ferret owners prefer to house their pets in a "condo-style" cage.
This is a multi-level wire cage that allows maximum romping room while still taking up only a minimum of your floor space.
If you opt for a cage made of plastic-coated wire, check periodically to make sure your ferret hasn't gnawed the coating, which could make your ferret sick.
Some people, however, want something different for their pet ferrets.
If you're handy, you can build a cage out of sturdy wood, but be sure to allow plenty of room for your fuzzy to run around.
Also, be sure to use a solid wood that your pets won't dig through chew pieces off of.
Never use items like cardboard boxes (too fragile) or aquariums (nonporous).
Of course, the cage walls should be strong and thick enough to keep your ferrets inside and everyone else outside.
The door latch should be secure but easy access for humans.
Remember that a wire cage's walls are also its windows.
No one likes to be "on-stage" all the time, even your ferret.
Much as it loves you, your ferret needs some privacy.
So sometimes it's a good idea to use an old sheet or blanket to cover the cage at night.
The cage's floors should not be made of wire or carpet.
Wire can damage your pet's paws, and carpet fibers can become lodged in ferret claws.
Andif a ferret eats carpet, wool, or other material, it can lead to intestinal problems.
2.
Bedroom(s) - What should you put inside the cage? The most important words to keep in mind are "soft" and "sturdy.
" Just about any soft durable fabric will be ideal for your ferret's cage.
Old T-shirts, sweat shirts, blankets, and throw rugs make great hiding places.
After all, "ferret" means "thief," and a good thief needs a hideout.
Your fuzzies will love to burrow and hunker down in an old blanket or quilt.
You may want to stitch the fabric into a quick hammock and hang it from the cage ceiling.
A hammock is one of a woozle's favorite places to sleep or cuddle with its companions.
You'll be surprised at how many ferrets can pile up into one tiny hammock.
If you don't have sewing skills, never fear.
Most pet-supply shops and websites will have pre-made ferret hammocks to order.
3.
Bathroom(s) - Now that the bedroom is complete, you need to consider the bathroom.
Of course, you will need litter boxes, but resist the temptation to use cat litter.
Use only dust-free litter made specifically for pet ferrets.
They love to burrow in litter, and the clumping varieties can clog up ferret nasal passages.
Place the litter in a litter box designed to fit in a corner of the cage.
Ferrets tend to use corners, so a triangular-shaped box is easiest to keep clean.
You should keep one or two within the cage and also have an additional litter box or two outside the cage for play time.
Pay attention to your ferret's preferred place to "go," and place the box there.
4.
Dining room - Naturally, you will need two items in your ferret's dining room: a water source and a food source.
For the water source, some owners prefer to use a heavy, non-tipping bowl while others prefer to use a water bottle.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
A bowl makes it easy for several pets to drink at once.
Plus, it's fun to watch a ferret splash around in the water.
However, the splashing does make a mess that needs to be cleaned up.
On the other hand, a water bottle makes clean-up a breeze, but some owners find a water bottle is not as convenient to check and refill as a bowl.
A heavy, non-tipping food bowl is best for food.
You may opt for one that attaches to the cage wall or one that stands alone.
Whichever kind you choose, make sure it is placed within easy reach of both your ferret and of the person who cleans and refills the bowl.
5.
Utility room/laundry room/maid's quarters - Of course, your ferret doesn't really have any of these rooms.
But you do.
Be sure to place all cage-cleaning supplies out of reach of your ferret, other pets, and small children.
You can wash your pet's bedding in your washing machine.
Whenever you clean the cage or bedding, use non-toxic, fragrance-free cleaners to avoid allergens.
Thoroughly rinse ferret cages and furnishings in clear water to avoid any residue.
Clean these items often to cut down on odors and germs.