The holidays are approaching fast! If you have a ferret, you probably have already noticed that these guys are very mischievous. As your Marion, IA area veterinarian, I go over some concerns and tips for holiday ferret care below.
Keep Your Pet Away From The Trees
Trees are always a safety concern with pets. Ferrets are often drawn to shiny things, like tinsel and glitter. Unfortunately, these can choke or entangle pets, and can cause serious intestinal blockages if ingested. Ribbons, garlands, and light strings are also unsafe, as are fragile ornaments and ornament hooks. Tree needles and water are safety issues as well. We recommend getting a little dog fence or something similar to keep your tiny pal away from the tree.
Guests
If you’re having company over, you’ll need to be extra vigilant. If you’re just hosting a dinner or get-together, you can probably just keep your ferret in their cage until everyone is gone. However, if people are staying overnight or longer, you’ll need to let the little guy out for some playtime. Keep a close eye on your ferret, and ask guests to keep things like purses, keys, and jewelry in spots where your furry pal can’t get them.
Plants
Many people like to get poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, ivy, and or/other seasonal plants as part of their décor. Unfortunately, many of the plants people associate with holidays are toxic to pets. Keep plants well out of reach of those tiny paws.
Cords
Lots of popular holiday decorations light up, sing, or make noise, which means they need to be plugged in. Electrical cords are always a danger to pets, but there’s an extra concern around the holidays, just as there are often so many of them. Put that singing snowman in a spot your ferret can’t reach! Use taste deterrents or protective coverings on anything your pet may be able to get to.
Gifts
Presents also are a concern. Wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons are definitely not things you want your tiny friend chewing or ingesting. Be careful with things like bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
Celebration
Who says ferrets can’t get in on the fun? Get the little guy his own stocking to play in! You can also take some adorable seasonal photos of your ferret.
Happy Holidays! Contact me, your Marion, IA area veterinarian, with any concerns about ferret care.
