Ferret

The ferret is the domesticated form of the European polecat,a mammal belonging to the same genus as the weasel,Mustela,in the family Mustelidae.Their fur is typically brown, black,white,or mixed.
Lifespan: 5 – 10 years
Family:Mustelidae
Scientific name:Mustela putorius furo
Gestation period:42days
Mass:0.7–2 kg
Length:38 cm (Without Tail)
Biology Of Ferret
Characteristics
Ferrets have a typical mustelid body-shape,being long and slender.Their average length is about 50 cm (20 in) including a 13cm(5.1 in)tail.Their pelage has various colorations including brown, black,white or mixed.
They weigh between 0.7 and 2.0 kg(1.5 and 4.4 lb)and are sexually dimorphic as the males are substantially larger than females.The average gestation period is 42 days and females may have two or three litters each year.The litter size is usually between three and seven kits which are weaned after three to six weeks and become independent at three months.They become sexually mature at approximately six months and the average life span is seven to 10 years.[8][9] Ferrets are induced ovulators.
Behavior
Ferrets spend 14–18 hours a day asleep and are most active around the hours of dawn and dusk,meaning they are crepuscular If they are caged,they should be taken out daily to exercise and satisfy their curiosity;they need at least an hour and a place to play.Unlike their polecat ancestors,which are solitary animals,most ferrets will live happily in social groups.They are territorial,like to burrow,and prefer to sleep in an enclosed area.Like many other mustelids,ferrets have scent glands near their anus,the secretions from which are used in scent marking.Ferrets can recognize individuals from these anal gland secretions,as well as the sex of unfamiliar individuals.Ferrets may also use urine marking for sex and individual recognition.The litter size is usually between three and seven kits which are weaned after three to six weeks and become independent at three months.They become sexually mature at approximately six months and the average life span is seven to 10 years.[8][9] Ferrets are induced ovulators.
Diet
Ferrets are obligate carnivores.The natural diet of their wild ancestors consisted of whole small prey, including meat,organs,bones,skin,feathers,and fur. Ferrets have short digestive systems and quick metabolism,so they need to eat frequently.Prepared dry foods consisting almost entirely of meat (including high-grade cat food, although specialized ferret food is increasingly available and preferable) provide the most nutritional value and are the most convenient , though some ferret owners feed pre-killed or live prey (such as mice and rabbits) to their ferrets to more closely mimic their natural diet.
Ferret digestive tracts lack a cecum and the animal is largely unable to digest plant matter.
Before much was known about ferret physiology, many breeders and pet stores recommended food like fruit in the ferret diet, but it is now known that such foods are inappropriate, and may in fact have negative ramifications on ferret health.
Dentition
Ferrets have four types of teeth (the number includes maxillary (upper) and mandibular (lower) teeth) with a dental formula of 3.1.4.13.1.4.2:Twelve small incisor teeth (only 2–3 mm [3⁄32–1⁄8 in] long) located between the canines in the front of the mouth. These are used for grooming.Four canines used for killing prey.Twelve premolar teeth that the ferret uses to chew food—located at the sides of the mouth, directly behind thecanines. The ferret uses these teeth to cut through flesh, using them in a scissors action to cut the meat into digestible chunks.Six molars (two on top and four on the bottom) at the far back of the mouth are used to crush food.
Health
Ferrets are known to suffer from several distinct health problems. Among the most common are cancers affecting the adrenal glands, pancreas, and lymphatic system. Viral diseases include canine distemper and influenza.
Health problems can occur in unspayed females when not being used for breeding. Certain health problems have also been linked to ferrets being neutered before reaching sexual maturity.
[citation needed] Certain colors of ferret may also carry a genetic defect known as Waardenburg syndrome. Similar to domestic cats, ferrets can also suffer from hairballs and dental problems. Ferrets will also often chew on and swallow foreign objects which can lead to bowel obstruction.
Ferrets Make Good Pets
While ferrets are not for everyone, they can make great pets for the right owner. They are affectionate and bond with their owners, quiet for a large part of the day, and there are few pets as playful as ferrets.
However, they seem to have garnered a negative image which is largely undeserved. If you are considering a ferret, learn more about how ferrets make good pets.
Ferrets Are Cute
With mischievous eyes and sweet faces, ferrets are undeniably adorable. They are a small size and can provide your family with a sweet long-term pet.