This guide will fully and ultimately answer the age-old question, “Can you use baby shampoo on ferrets?” The guide explains whether the baby shampoo is safe for use on ferrets and the other types of shampoos that one can use on ferrets.
While ferrets have an odor, pet owners should only bathe their ferrets every two to four weeks. The reason is that bathing them too often can make their skin too dry, and bathing causes their skin to develop more oil. This oil can increase their odor.
Keep reading to find out if baby shampoo for ferrets is safe to use and learn about the best shampoos to use on a ferret.
Baby Shampoo and Other Types of Shampoos for Ferrets
It’s time to figure out: can you use baby shampoo on ferrets? While the best shampoos are ones explicitly developed for ferrets, you will find it safe to use tearless baby shampoo on ferrets or ones built for kittens.
Most importantly, gentle shampoo is necessary when bathing a ferret. Manufacturers make some shampoos specifically for a ferret. However, baby shampoo or shampoo for cats can be perfectly fine for use on ferrets. Be sure to use mild shampoos.
In fact, some pet owners have found that baby shampoo can help alleviate dry or itchy skin that a ferret may get regularly. However, it is also important to note that ferrets are often scared and stressed out from taking a bath.
As such, you’ll want to remain playful and positive when bathing your ferret. Speak nicely to your ferret and bring toys into the bath so that the ferret remains calmer and even enjoys its bathtime.
What Types of Shampoo Work Best for Ferrets?
What kind of shampoos are the best ones to use on ferrets? There are multiple types of shampoos designed specifically for ferrets with tons of benefits. Below is a list of the best ferret shampoos on the market.
- 8 in 1 FerretSheen Deodorizing Ferret Shampoo
- Marshall No Tears Formula Shampoo
- Petpost Ferret Shampoo
- Marshall Tea Tree Shampoo
- Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
- Kaytee Squeaky Clean Critter Shampoo
- Arm & Hammer Tearless Shampoo
- Professional Pet Products – Ferret Fresh Deodorizing Shampoo
For example, the Marshall No Tears Formula Shampoo has aloe Vera to help keep a ferret’s coat healthy as well as balanced pH. In addition, FerretSheen shampoo provides a safe deep-clean and eliminates odor via its built-in enzymes.
Is Baby Shampoo Safe for Ferrets?
Are you still wondering – is baby shampoo safe for ferrets? Pet owners can use Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Shampoo and other mild baby shampoo on ferrets. It will be perfectly safe to use these types of gentle shampoos.
Pet owners may find it is easier to find human shampoos for their ferrets. However, be sure to use mild baby shampoos. These kinds of shampoos won’t bother the ferret’s skin. On the other hand, it may relieve the itchiness and dryness of a ferret’s skin.
Essentially, baby shampoo will be safe and effective when used on ferrets. However, be sure to use only a small dollop, as ferrets are rather small and won’t need too much shampoo.
Proper hygiene is very important for ferrets. If you have so far refrained from giving your ferret more exercise in the apartment for these reasons, you could ensure with better hygiene and a puppy pad for ferrets that the level of cleanliness of your apartment does not suffer even with long periods of free-roaming.
Tip: Use a collar with a bell for your ferret to always know where it is. The collars do not disturb them and you can be more relaxed while your ferrets are exploring the surroundings.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Baby Shampoo?
If you want to use something besides baby shampoo, you may be wondering – what are the best alternatives to this kind of shampoo?
Luckily, there are many alternatives to using baby shampoo on your pet ferret. You can choose shampoos designed specifically for ferrets, such as FerretSheen Deodorizing Shampoo or Petpost Naturally Shampoo.
FerretSheen Deodorizing Shampoo is affordable, adequate quality, shiny and soft, removes odor, and comes in a large bottle.
Petpost Naturally Shampoo is great for the skin and fur of a ferret. It has a nice scent and will remove the bad smell that your ferret may have after weeks of not bathing.
Some shampoos are meant for all types of small pets, such as Kaytee Quick & Clean Shampoo Spray. This spray comes at a cheap price and does not irritate the skin nor require rinsing. These are all excellent alternatives to using baby shampoo.
Summary: Baby Shampoo for Ferrets is Fine to Use
At the end of the day, baby shampoo is perfectly fine to use on ferrets. It’s safe and won’t hurt your ferret. It is also perfect for alleviating the itchiness and dryness of ferret skin.
Whatever shampoo you choose, be sure to bathe the ferret at least once a month. This will keep your ferret smelling fresh and clean.
