Ferrets have a lot of energy. Seriously, it’s impressive. They’ll zip around, leap, and then suddenly zoom when they spot a toy. You might wonder if something’s off, but those bursts are just how they are.
They need ways to use this energy. Giving them outlets helps them stay happy and healthy. Let’s talk about what ferrets love to play with and the best toys for them.
Playfulness Is Part Of Its Nature
Ferrets are cute, furry creatures. They’re part of the Mustelidae family, like weasels and otters. Some people still think they’re rodents, but they’re not. Their curious, playful ways make them great pets. They’ll bring plenty of fun to your home.
No day is ever dull with a ferret. One minute you’re relaxing, the next, a fuzzy streak dashes by. It might be doing its “war dance” to get your attention, wanting to play.
Ferrets sleep a lot, often 16 to 20 hours daily. They’re most active at dawn and dusk. This is why some call them “death sleepers”—they can fall into such deep sleep, it can scare you. But when they’re awake, they love to climb, jump, sprint, and play.
They are very social animals. They enjoy playing with people and other ferrets. Vets suggest about four hours of playtime outside their cage. This helps them exercise and explore. It’s good for their body and mind, making their life better overall.
How To Play With A Ferret
A ferret won’t usually play for four hours straight. They typically play for an hour, then nap. Because of this, you can play with your furry pal on your own schedule.
For example, let your ferret out in the morning. Put them back in their cage when you leave for work. Then, take them out again when you get home. They’ll sleep a lot anyway and like calm places. You probably don’t need a pet sitter during the day.
Always watch your ferret during playtime. They are super curious. Accidents can happen when they roam free. It’s really important to “ferret-proof” the play area. This keeps them safe.
Ferrets are naturally frisky and enjoy rough play. Many games help you spend fun time with your lively pet.
Create A Unique Bond
Ferrets enjoy cuddling. They love getting attention from their people. You can carry your ferret in your hands, or even in your hoodie pocket while you do things around the house. Remember, pick them up from their belly. Don’t grab their tail, you could hurt them.
You can also let them sit on your lap while you’re on the floor or in bed. Petting their head, rubbing their belly, and soft scratches work wonders. They really like being pampered. Sometimes these gentle touches make them fall asleep.
Always speak to them gently. Talk to them daily, like saying “good morning” or telling them they’re the best pet. Use a calm tone. Aggressive language can make them scared or wary of you.
A Game Of Tag Or Chasing
Ferrets love to move freely. A game of tag is perfect for them. First, make sure the play area is ferret-proof. Put your ferret on the floor, then run away. They will try to chase you.
Have treats ready. Give them out to reward good behavior during play. After chasing you a few times, they will learn quickly. Then they might run away, expecting you to chase them. Your ferret might even try to touch or jump on you before running off to play tag.
Sometimes, your ferret might gently bite your feet while chasing you. If this happens, use an old blanket for them to bite instead. Or, train them to bite softer and show them their bites hurt you.
Tug Of War
If you have a ferret, you know they are persistent when they want to play. They will jump around you, follow you, and might even nip to get your attention. Tug of war is another good way to play with them.
Use a towel or a toy. Let them grab one end while you pull the other. Your ferret will pull back, trying to “win.” You should pull just strong enough to make it a challenge, but not so hard that you might hurt their teeth.
Take Him For A Walk
Walking your ferret outside can give them good exercise. But you should practice indoors first. Put a leash on your ferret for a few minutes each day. Do this for about three days before you try going outside for a short test walk.
Ten to twenty minutes is usually enough exercise for your ferret. Remember, ferrets can catch human illnesses, like the flu. Try to limit their exposure to outside things every time you take them out.
Interactive Games
Many owners wonder what ferrets like to play with. You can use almost anything that makes your ferret think. Try making a maze or tunnels with tubes and other household items.
Put treats inside or reward them when they finish a maze. This can give them hours of playtime. Some owners even use clickers to get their attention and time them as they find their way out of a maze.
You can also use a cardboard box or hide their toys for a different kind of fun. A box full of packing peanuts with a few hidden toys makes a ferret very happy. They get excited searching for their things.
Another idea: hide behind a door or under a blanket. Call their name to play hide-and-seek. Some ferrets learn fast. They’ll follow you, then hide so you have to look for them.
What Kind Of Toys Do Ferrets Like
When picking toys for your ferret, safety is always first. Ferrets like to chew things. This means choking or swallowing small pieces is a risk. If your ferret swallows plastic, it can twist their digestive tract. This can be very dangerous and even deadly.
Because of this, stay away from small toys or anything with loose parts. Also, toys made of rubber or latex are easily chewed and swallowed. You must keep these types of toys away from your ferret.
The best toys for ferrets are made from hard, strong plastic. Some cat and parrot toys fit this description. Ferrets love playing in tunnels. You can buy ferret tubes or PVC pipes for their cage or to build a maze. Thick ropes and stuffed toys with squeakers are also good choices to keep your ferret entertained.
Some pet companies make ferret balls. Your ferret can climb inside and roll around. It’s like having a persistent bumper car zooming through your house. Who needs a carnival?
Other toy ideas include paper bags, cardboard boxes, bells, stuffed animals, and teething rings. Use your imagination to match your ferret’s energy levels. From now on, it’s game night, every night.
Your ferret does not need expensive things to be happy. They just need someone to give them love and affection. So, always try to spend quality time with your furry friend. Unconditional love is rare. Sometimes, pets are the only ones who can give it!