The ferret belongs to the genus of mammals of the mustelidae family. The animal has a calm, non-aggressive character. Under natural conditions, it is found in the forests of Eurasia, North America and Russia. There is no clear answer to the question of how many years ferrets live, since this parameter is influenced by several factors (diet, permanent habitat, genetics).
Life expectancy of ferrets
The diet and living conditions in captivity or in the natural habitat are different. Therefore, the life expectancy of ferrets will vary.
In nature
The most common are two types of ferrets: dark forest and light steppe. Males grow 45-50 cm long, females - 35-40 cm. The predator weighs 1.3-1.6 kg. The ferret is a predator and hunts small rodents, mainly voles. Extraction steppe ferret there may be gophers, hamsters, pikas.
Under natural conditions, the life expectancy of an animal is 2-4 years, since lack of food, illness, various injuries and wounds significantly shorten the life span. In addition, ferrets often become prey to larger predators.
In captivity at home
Of course, the pet is provided with comfortable living conditions and balanced, nutritious food. Therefore, tame predators live longer - 6-10 years. If vaccination is carried out in a timely manner, the life expectancy of castrated animals will be 10-14 years.
Of course, such operations have an impact on pets’ behavior and lifestyle.
Neutered ferrets are calmer and more affectionate. It is recommended that the procedure be performed on animals aged 6-8 months. Thanks to research, it has been found that sterilization extends the life of a furry pet.
What can affect an animal's lifespan?
The lifespan of any animal is determined by a number of factors. Several indicators influence the lifespan of a ferret:
- diet. Since pets are carnivores, the main element of food is meat.It is not recommended to feed the animal fruits and vegetables, since the ferret’s digestive system is not adapted to assimilate plant foods;
- An important factor is genetics (life expectancy of the pet's parents);
- proper care and the creation of comfortable living conditions significantly lengthen the animal’s life.
We cannot exclude the factor of diseases that can shorten life expectancy. Therefore, it is advisable to constantly examine your pet and pay attention to behavioral abnormalities or suspicious symptoms.
Is it possible and how to extend the life of a ferret?
Taking into account the factors influencing the life expectancy of the animal, you need to adhere to the rules for keeping it:
- Since ferrets are active, it is necessary to provide them with constant access to drinking water. Regular dehydration of the body contributes to a reduction in life expectancy;
- food is fed in small portions 3-4 times a day;
- periodic vaccination is a reliable way to prevent infection with dangerous deadly diseases (rabies, plague);
- the cages are constantly cleaned, the bedding is changed daily;
- To prevent injury or poisoning, it is recommended that owners, during their absence, place their pets in cages equipped for rest.
Ferrets are predators, so it is important to exclude the following foods from the diet: dry cat or dog food, milk, table food (fried, salty, sweet foods), canned food, citrus fruits.
How to determine the age of an animal
Average, ferrets at home live 6-7 years. Therefore, when purchasing an animal, it is advisable to determine its age in advance. To understand how old a fluffy dog is, you need to carefully examine its physical characteristics. Veterinarians recommend paying attention to the condition of your teeth.
Young, nimble pets will have tufts that are white, bright and strong. Visible changes are observed in predators aged 2-4 years: the ends of the fangs turn slightly yellow and become transparent. By the age of 6, small teeth may be missing on the lower jaw, and the surface of the fangs becomes yellow.
Attentive attitude, a nutritious diet, comfortable living conditions are factors that influence the life expectancy of a pet. The beast is an exotic pet. Therefore, before getting an animal, you need to familiarize yourself with the recommendations for keeping it.
