When it comes to getting the right ferret cage for your little one, there are a few tips that can help you ensure that your ferret is happy and healthy. Not all pet stores have caught on to the idea of keeping the little guys healthy until they are adopted, so be sure you know what type of cage you’re looking for. Glass aquariums are simply not appropriate for this type of companion. You’re going to need a well ventilated cage with ample space and a way to keep your little one mentally stimulated when you’re not around.

Most people get their ferrets as young kits rather than as adults. This is especially true for first time ferret owners. Pocket pet cages like rat cages and guinea pig cages are not sufficient for a companion like a ferret. It will not likely provide the right safety precautions nor will it be large enough for when he is fully grown.

The cage will need to be large enough to allow for play. The ferret is a social creature with huge amounts of curiosity. He needs to be active and entertained when you are not there to be his friend. Just like most animals, lack of human companionship coupled with lack of entertainment can bring on unwanted behaviors and health issues. You want to make sure they get daily playtime outside of the cage, but you also want to ensure that their time inside their little home is pleasant.

A lot of pet ferrets are excellent at figuring out the puzzle that opens their cage door. If you build a cage at home you will have to pay very close attention to the doorway construction. It doesn’t take long for these smart little creatures to figure out their escape route. Once they learn it, they will never unlearn it. Thus, it is best to make sure they have a very secure door to keep them safe from their own curiosity when you can’t supervise play time.

Without enough air flow your ferret can get very ill or even die. Glass cages can heat up in direct sunlight the same way your car heats up through the windows. In order to make sure that there is enough air moving through the cage, go with a wire structure.

It’s not just the temperature you need to worry about. Ventilation is essential for preventing your ferret from becoming ill from his own bedding. Any kind of cedar chip bedding is quite likely to make his ill through respiratory complications or through the development of cancer. Use newspaper based bedding and provide a cage with good air circulation in order to prevent such health problems.

Try to think of the perfect ferret cages from their point of view. Ferrets are not animals that are going to thrive being in a cage long term without the essentials to challenge their minds. They can easily round up their own trouble when boredom strikes, including chewing their way through plastic cages and learning to unlock unsecure doors. Create an environment that they will be happy in while simultaneously focusing on how healthy they will be.