Ferrets have never been the ideal choice for pets mostly because of the odor they release. It is considered to be the biggest reason why people don’t usually opt for ferret. Owners of ferrets will agree that they are smelly animals; however this does not take away from their good nature. Current owners of ferrets do not need to worry about the odor. There are ways to reduce the ferret odor and still enjoy the company of your pet. Here are the easiest 5 ways to do so:

1. Find the root cause: While by nature ferrets secrete oils that are pungent and odorous, the really bad smells are a reaction to something around them. Humans perspire because of sweat glands. A ferret secretes oils to protect its coat and skin. The most obvious way to combat bad ferret odor is to give your ferret regular baths. This will control the levels of odor. At times, a foul odor is a cause of bad sanitation. Besides the sanitation, it would be advisable to use a deodorizing spray or powder. They can be found in most pet stores. Most important in this point is to understand that ferrets cannot be cured of smelling bad. By nature, they have an inherent odor which they release. It is a very specific scent.

2. Litter train: Train your ferret to litter in the litter box and not all around the cage. They aren’t like other animals that clean up after themselves; they need you to clean up after them. To avoid odor as much as possible, have a high litter box which will not allow any spraying or urine. Teaching the ferret to litter in a particular spot may seem tasking but will prove beneficial over a period of time.

3. Keep immediate environment clean: Besides cleaning the ferret itself, ensure that the ferret’s immediate surroundings are also clean. This means cleaning the beds and, toys, blankets, mats, or anything that is in the ferret’s cage. By doing this, the chances of odor will be less.

4. Food and water: Besides cleaning the food and water bins that your ferret uses on a daily basis, it is also important to monitor what your ferret eats. Feed them proper foods that are suitable to ferrets dietary and nutritional needs.

5. Get hormones removed: To ensure that the ferret gives off a considerably less amount of odor, make sure that your ferret gets neutered. This is a medical procedure and can be done by a veterinarian. However, be prepared to wait of at least a month before any reduction is odor is felt.

Ultimately, as an owner of a pet like a ferret, there are certain issues that we have to come to terms with. In the case of a ferret, we have to come to terms with their ability to smell bad. If you are looking for another way to reduce odor because you have tried absolutely everything, invest in an odor removing air purifier. It will serve its purpose.

Jonathan Pitts

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