Ferret Definition
A ferret is a domesticated mammal belonging to the family Mustelidae, which also includes weasels, stoats (ermines), minks, and otters.
Ferret General Characteristics & Facts
Size
Ferrets are small to medium-sized mammals, typically measuring between 13 to 18 inches (33 to 45 cm) in length, with an additional 5 to 6 inches (13 to 15 cm) for their tail. They can weigh anywhere from 1.5 to 4 pounds (0.7 to 1.8 kg).
Lifespan
In captivity, ferrets can live around 6 to 10 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Domestication
Ferrets have been domesticated for thousands of years, primarily for their hunting abilities and as companions.
Social Animals
Ferrets are highly social creatures and thrive on interaction with both their human owners and other ferrets.
Communication
Ferrets communicate through various vocalizations, such as chirping, hissing, and even screaming. They also use body language, like dancing and hopping, to express excitement or engage in play.
Hunting Instinct
Due to their ancestry as hunters, ferrets have a strong prey drive and might chase after small animals, including household pets like birds or rodents.
Digging Behavior
In their natural environment, ferrets would dig burrows to sleep and hide. As pets, they may exhibit digging behavior, so providing them with suitable bedding and opportunities for digging can help satisfy this instinct.
Lifelong Learners
Ferrets are intelligent animals and can learn tricks and commands with consistent training.
Scent Glands
Like other members of the Mustelidae family, ferrets have scent glands, which they use for marking territory and communication.
Seasonal Coat Changes
Ferrets can undergo a seasonal change in their coat color, becoming lighter in the summer and darker in the winter.
Read our Animals Encyclopedia with Complete Facts
Scientific Classification of Ferret
The domestic ferret, also known by its scientific name, is classified as follows:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Mustelidae
Genus: Mustela
Species: Mustela putorius furo
Key Locations of Ferret
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- European Countries
- Asian Countries
View All A-Z Animals List
FAQs Ferret
What does Ferret eat?
- Commercial Ferret Food
- High-Protein Foods
- Raw Meat
- Ferret-Specific Treats