Ferrets are among the list of unique animals that are adopted as pets. There are many pros and cons of getting ferrets, but just like any other animal, you need to understand them before committing to taking care of one.
Like cats and dogs, ferrets are pets that make a great companion at home. However, potential owners need to be aware of their pet ferrets’ needs, including anything related to health, common problems, necessary equipment for shelter, entertainment, and protection.
Some of the reasons ferrets make excellent pets and family additions are that they are very loving, highly intelligent, and comical. In addition, ferrets are pets that enjoy hiding in tight spaces or any areas where they can squeeze themselves in.
It is one of the challenges ferret owners need to overcome. Collars with a bell can be a great solution, but are they safe for small and active animals like ferrets?
Is it Safe for Your Ferrets to Wear Collars?
Studies claim that wearing collars for your pets that properly fits them poses minimal risks that lead to injuries. However, the risk of losing your pets is a greater possibility for every high-energy mammal-like ferret. As a result, thousands of homeless ferrets are brought to ferret rescue organizations and animal shelters yearly.
Ferrets have a high tendency to become escape artists. Their narrow bodies allow them to fit through small areas such as cracks in the door or even exit routes at home. And once the ferret gets away, it will be hard to find them. Unlike dogs, they don’t respond to calls unless the ferret learns to recognize their names, but there’s a slim chance for this to happen.
Most ferret owners opt to use collars to track their pets. However, since ferret’s personalities vary, some may be super active while others can be calm most of the time, getting one to keep their location in check at all times is a wise decision.
What kind of collar is best for a ferret?
According to experts, training their pet ferrets to wear collars is safe and attainable. However, it is advisable to ensure that the collars bought for the ferret are made from suitable materials to provide comfortability when worn. Choose an adjustable soft nylon web collar that perfectly fits the ferret’s neck. Various collar designs include additional attachments to offer slots for leash or harness, which can be used when taking the ferret out for a walk.
Using a breakaway collar is also advisable, especially if you’re worried that your pet ferret might get stuck or be caught onto something while moving around. Breakaway collars, also known as quick-release collars, are made to release if tugged forcefully easily.
Will ferrets get used to wearing a collar? How long should it stay on?
While some ferret owners successfully train their ferrets to wear a collar, some admit their efforts are in vain. Other ferrets find collars to be uncomfortable, so they tend to remove them. Furthermore, size is also a factor to consider. Some ferrets’ necks and heads only have a little size difference. Therefore, it makes wearing a collar pointless as it will only slip off.
In the beginning, it’s okay to leave it for a couple of hours, one to two hours at most, considering that the goal is to allow the ferret to become familiar with the feeling of having a collar on their neck.
Offering a treat (like beef) while putting it on can also help appease the ferret. Once used to it, the maximum duration to leave the collar on can be 4 to 8 hours. It will again depend on how active the ferret can be and how ferret-proofed the house is.
Is there another alternative if the ferret refuses to wear collars?
If the pet ferret refuses to put on the collar, ferret owners can try ribbons with bells. Its material is different from most collars available in the market. Ribbons are more lightweight than collars, so ferrets barely notice them allowing them to stay on longer.
A harness is a great choice in equipment for those who take their ferrets outside for a walk or playtime. H-style and vest are the two types ferret owners can choose from. Ultimately, ensuring that you pick what brings comfort to the ferret is the top priority.
Moreover, selecting a harness where a leash can be attached to it is a good option too. Although this will require training to ensure that the ferret doesn’t experience any unpleasant feelings while wearing them. One downside of making ferrets wear a harness is they can escape from the harness coming from the back out instead of pushing from the neck out.
Should ferrets wear collars?
Collars, in general, are only used as needed, so it is not a mandatory accessory for a pet owner. However, for ferrets, their personality will be a deciding factor if they need to wear a collar.
Understand the ferret’s lifestyle before buying them one. Sometimes, ferret-proofing the house to ensure there are no holes or spaces they can squeeze into is already enough. Also, purchase a collar for the ferret if you think it requires extra attention to keep track of its location. In the right circumstances, ferrets can even be left for an extended time period alone without having to worry about them.
So, Can Your Ferrets Wear Collars?
Collars are not considered a necessary item when taking care of a ferret. However, It can be challenging to locate a ferret, especially if they are very active. Burrowing and hiding are some of their favorite activities so you can expect to find them between nooks and crannies at home. Proofing the house to make it safe for the ferret will enhance the living situation for your pet.
Ferret collars, available in pet shops, are generally safe to use, but not all ferrets will like them. You have to always check that the collar fits around the ferret’s neck and ensure it is not too loose or tight. Also, always remember to consider your ferret’s situation before deciding to buy one.
