Ferrets have a relatively short lifespan compared to other pets, but with proper care they can enjoy a long and healthy life.
The lifespan of a ferret
It can be anywhere from 5 to 20 years, depending on the care it receives. The lifestyle you lead as an owner has the greatest impact on a ferret’s lifespan. Ferrets that are allowed to roam and are not vaccinated have much shorter lives than indoor, vaccinated ferrets.
In addition to these lifestyle factors, genetics also have an impact. Some ferrets are more likely to suffer from health complications than others, but a healthy lifestyle can often overcome genetic odds.
So how long do ferrets live? As far as pets go, ferrets are relatively long-lived animals.
Canine pets, such as dogs and cats, typically live 12-15 years.
Feline pets, such as lions and tigers, live 15-20 years on average.
Like these furry friends, ferrets enter their prime in their middle years and are adults between 2 and 3 years old. They’re young adults at 1 year and mature adults at around 5 years.
On average, if properly cared for, a ferret can live anywhere from 5 to 20 years. The following lifestyle factors can have a significant impact on a ferret’s health and longevity:
Indoor/vaccinated ferrets should live indoors only. How you house your ferret is incredibly important to their health. If they’re kept in a proper cage or enclosure, they’ll be much safer from predators and other risks, and can live a longer, healthier life.
On the other hand, if they’re allowed to roam outside, their lifespan will be significantly cut short. They’re vulnerable to predators (such as snakes, birds, cats, dogs, and rodents), poisonous plants and insects, cars, and other man-made dangers.
Ferrets need routine checkups and vaccinations to keep diseases at bay. Unvaccinated ferrets are more susceptible to illness and life-threatening diseases, such as the ferret flu, canine distemper, and feline influenza.
These can cause a range of symptoms, but can be treated with proper medical care if caught early. Unvaccinated ferrets must be separated from other animals until they’re treated to avoid transmission.
On the flip side, properly vaccinated ferrets are able to enjoy longer, healthier lives outdoors with their owners.
Feed your ferret a high-quality ferret diet formulated for their needs. This will ensure the nutrients they get while feeding their active lifestyle. Treats should also be healthy, and should not make up more than 10 percent of your ferret’s diet. Too many treats can lead to obesity, which causes a range of health issues and can drastically cut a ferret’s lifespan.
A clean, healthy environment promotes a long and happy life for your ferret. They have very strong smell senses, so although you may not notice a smell, your ferret likely will and it may be uncomfortable or unhealthy for them.
Health issues of ferrets
Just like humans, ferrets can develop health issues over time.
Ferret obesity is a major problem. They are likely to overeat if there are leftovers in the bowl. This could lead to diabetes, liver disease, and heart disease.
Ferrets are susceptible to the same allergic diseases as cats and dogs, including asthma, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies.
Just like with pets of larger size, the veterinarian will check for grooming and skin condition, weight and diet, evidence of disease or injury, and check the mouth and teeth. A ferret insulin test will be done if diabetes is suspected. A ferret blood glucose test may also be ordered.
Like cats, ferrets are prone to polycystic kidney disease. The veterinarian will check for urine marks in the back corners of the cage, as well as listen to the abdomen for sounds associated with the disease.
Like dogs, ferrets are prone to canine vascular heart disease. The veterinarian will check for a soft pulse in the artery of the ear and a ripe odor in the mouth.