Ferrets are popular pets because of their cute appearance and hunting abilities. They have fascinating antics, and owners enjoy bonding with their pets. However, there’s one aspect of caring for pet ferrets that can be slightly tricky. Ferrets have an undeniably potent odor, and it can be too overpowering for some.
In this guide, we’ll look at the reasons why pet ferrets smell and how potential owners can address it.
Ferrets Have Various Scent Glands
There’s a clear reason why pet ferrets produce their distinctive odor. Ferrets have glands on their bodies that release different scents. Their anal glands work similarly to cats and dogs because they use them to mark territory. These produce a pungent, lingering smell. Many breeders remove these anal glands from young ferrets in the United States. However, this doesn’t entirely solve the issue.
Ferrets also have sebaceous glands in their skin that produce another musky odor. This is the common scent that most people associate with ferrets. There are other reasons why ferrets may reek, but these are usually related to poor husbandry. Owners should note that their gland-related scents are natural, so it’s something they just accept!
Poor Husbandry Can Cause a Foul Ferret Odor
Pet ferrets may also produce bad smells for other reasons aside from their scent glands. Usually, this is because owners aren’t caring for them appropriately. It’s crucial to keep their cage or hutch clean because this will affect their physical condition. For example, if you don’t change your ferret’s bedding, an unpleasant smell could cling to their fur. Similarly, they may stand in their waste with unfortunate results. It’s an owner’s responsibility to ensure that their ferret is living in a healthy, clean environment. Ferrets are clean animals and even groom each other, so don’t blame it on them! They are not inherently dirty or diseased animals.
Tips for Minimizing Pet Ferret Smells
The easiest way to minimize ferret smells is to regularly clean their enclosure. Remember: this won’t entirely erase their naturally occurring odor. Even if a vet removes their anal glands, they’ll still emit a smell through their skin. Nonetheless, good husbandry can make a big difference. For example, it’s essential to feed your ferret a balanced, high-protein diet.
Clean their litter box and change their bedding regularly, so that everything remains fresh. You could also add an air purifier to the room, but be careful not to get one that negatively impacts your pet ferret, such as by creating an unpleasant noise. Another way to mitigate pet ferret smells is to spay them. Most vets will do this when they’re young, anyway. The ferrets will still produce gland-related odors, but they won’t be as strong. Unneutered male and female ferrets are more territorial and likely to release their scent. Meanwhile, don’t forget to groom your pet ferrets and wash them when necessary!
Grooming Your Ferret Can Control Their Odor
Owners should regularly groom their pet ferrets because this will help reduce unwanted smells. You shouldn’t need to bathe them too often because it’s bad for their fur, and they likely won’t enjoy it. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe them–– unless they’re filthy and bathing them is unavoidable. Meanwhile, regularly brush your ferret’s coat like you would with a dog. You can do this a couple of times a week.
Don’t forget to trim their nails because this will help prevent feces and other waste from sticking to them. It’s also better for their handlers because they won’t be able to scratch so easily. Some ferrets have nasty tempers, especially if they haven’t undergone socialization at a young age. Deodorizers are available for ferrets, too, but always check the ingredients list because you don’t want to accidentally harm your ferret.
Some Health Issues Can Cause Unpleasant Odors
Diarrhea is one of the main health symptoms that can cause bad smells. This can occur for a variety of reasons. Gastrointestinal blockages are one of the most common causes. In short, this usually means that your ferret ate something that they shouldn’t have. Take them to the vet if they don’t pass it quickly because they may require surgery. Sometimes, ferrets also suffer from dental disease. This can trigger bad breath, so you may need to get a vet to clean their teeth or even brush them. This is more likely to develop with age and may not be fully treatable.
Removing a Ferret’s Anal Glands: What to Know
Removing ferrets’ anal glands is a controversial practice in some parts of the world. It’s forbidden in the United Kingdom and most of Europe, but it’s an acceptable practice in some parts of the U.S. The idea is that removing a ferret’s anal glands will reduce their odor. However, it’s not so simple, and usually, it’s not very effective. Many people believe that it’s also unethical. One reason is that a ferret may suffer complications during their recovery period. Anal gland removal may also cause emotional problems because the ferret can no longer perform a natural bodily function. It’s worth noting that the American Ferret Association (AFA) strongly opposes this practice, too.
Removing a ferret’s anal glands is a largely cosmetic procedure and one that owners must exercise caution in making. There are reported cases where ferrets suffered from infections during the procedure’s recovery period. Only use a trusted vet if you’re planning it for your ferrets. They can explain the pros and cons and whether it could benefit your pet’s quality of life.
