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Part of being a ferret owner is coming to terms with ferret odors. While mild, natural body odor is normal even for de-scented ferrets, strong or pungent odors are usually an indication of lax grooming and sanitation practices. Don't wait until odor becomes a "problem." Simplify odor-control through proper grooming and by maintaining a clean living environment. |
Keep ferrets clean
Ferrets produce an oily secretion to help condition their skin and coat. Without routine baths, this oil can contribute a strong "ferret" smell. Regular baths help minimize this odor. However, it is important not to overdo it. Excessive baths can remove too much of the oil and cause dry, itchy skin. Bathe your ferret with a mild shampoo specifically designed for ferrets, such as
Marshall's Ferret Shampoo and never use dishwashing detergents. While bathing frequency may vary from ferret to ferret, bathing your ferret more than once a month can strip vital oils. To keep your ferret smelling fresh between bathing intervals, use a deodorizing spray such as
Marshall's Ferret Spritz.
Clean litter boxes and cages
A clean living environment is the key to minimizing musky ferret odors. Like cats, ferrets are clean by nature and can be litter trained. However, their needs differ from cats. Ferrets back into corners with their tails raised to urinate or defecate and, unlike cats, they do not cover their stool. To properly accommodate ferrets, use the
High Back Litter Pan. The low sides and the high back of this litter pan are designed to contain ferret waste. Place a thin layer of dust-free, absorbent
litter to contain moisture inside the litter pan. Clean out the litter pan on a daily basis to ensure odor control. Also, be sure to wash any sleeping
hammocks or blankets once a week to remove odor and reduce oily buildup.
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| Ferret Care Checklist |
 DAILY:
- Remove wet spots or waste in bedding litter.
- If necessary, change any bedding/litter that is too soiled.
- Empty and wash her food bowl using warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Thoroughly rinse and dry the bowl before returning it to your pet's environment and filling it with food.
- Empty and wash her water bottle using warm water and a small amount of mild soap. To ease the cleaning of your pet's water bottle, use a bottle brush. Thoroughly rinse the water bottle before refilling it with clean, fresh water and returning it to your pet's home.
WEEKLY:
- Remove and replace all bedding and/or litter.
- Wash and disinfect the cage bottom and any toys. Nontoxic Cage Cleaner & Deodorizer can be used to deodorize and leaves a fresh scent.
- Wash and disinfect any cage accessories, such as climbing shelves, dens, or beds, per the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for each product. Rinse thoroughly and dry well.
TIP:
While cleaning your pet's environment keep your small pet safely contained in an exercise pen or small traveling carrier. An empty cage is much easier to clean. You can keep your ferret occupied while in the pen by adding stimulating and interactive toys and treats like Pull-n-Go or Ferret N-Bone Chew Treats. |
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PRODUCTS RELATED TO:
Grooming & Odor Control
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