After looking for the perfect ferret, the next step to take is to look for the right food. In the market, there are many products which have the word "ferret" on it but there is no assurance that that will be the best choice. The brands do not even matter. Just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s worth the price. So, which should you buy?

To feed meat or not to feed meat.

Ferrets are carnivores. They may already been domesticated for a long time yet, just like their cousins, they still need meat to survive. Ferrets cannot digest vegetables because of their short digestive tracts so they need food that contains easily digestible meat protein. 1 Vegetable matter takes a long time to digest, often between 2-3 hours, which a ferret does not have. 2

Nutritional Requirements

Balanced nutritional content includes 32-38. More than these percentages can harm the kidneys of an older ferret. Fat should have 18-25, which should come from animal sources, too. Fibers should have less 3 . Don’t forget that simple carbohydrates are more preferred without too much sweet. The starch should be well-cooked. Ash content should be no more than 7% to avoid the formation of kidney stones. 3,4

Going Meow

Some experts say that it’s okay to feed your ferrets with cat food, some beg to disagree. Ferret foods are "nutritionally geared toward the needs of your ferret. The protein, fat, vitamin and mineral ratio are balanced for a ferret’s metabolism." 5 Let’s say you were not able to find any available ferret foods, then cat food can be a temporary substitute. These can be used as occasional treats just so your ferret can get used to the taste in case of emergency.  Just remember that most grocery store pet foods are high in vegetable fiber and are not digestible or nutritionally sound for ferrets. 6 No dog food substitutes, please! Dog food does not contain taurine which is vital for a ferret’s eye and cardiovascular health. It also contains more vegetable protein and less animal protein. 7

But wait, there’s more…

Do not forget to give them fresh water and food 24/7. Without water, your ferret will dehydrate easily. Without food and proper nutrition, your pet will not get the desired vitamins and minerals it needs every day. Cleanliness of the spot where you put the water and food is also a must, too.

 

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