Ferrets won't play with me?

[audennx]

I brought two ferrets home yesterday night. They are about 8 weeks old, I believe. They get plenty of free roam time, they have water and food (it's the kibble they were eating before until their raw meat gets here), they have a decently large cage with hammocks, toys, tunnels, and beds. I have a 15 ft tunnel for their free roam time as well as other toys. I've seen them play with each other a few times, but they will rarely play with me. I try to initiate play a lot, but they just walk away or lay still, but they don't seem to be afraid of me. I've taken naps with them and I've held them before. Is there any reason why they wouldn't be playing with me? Is it something that will happen when they're bonded to me more? I know I've only had them for 24 hours, but I have heard that babies are really playful, so I was expecting them to be more energetic and to play with me. Is there a certain way I should try to play with them? Any help would be appreciated. Everyone says to spend time with your ferrets, but mine will only nap with me sometimes and nothing else really. I just want to give them the best life and spend time with them. Thank you!

[lumboo]

I won't be getting my ferret kits till August so I'm giving advice based on getting my cats as kittens.

For the first few days I didn't really try and play with them. I fed them, stroked them if they came to me, but otherwise just sat and watched whilst they explored, smelt things and settled into their new home.

They are babies, newly separated from Mum and littermates. Give them time to view a whole new world and check its safe.

When they know what's what, you will be a full time play friend I'm sure

Don't rush it - its brilliant they trust you already. Just let them explore and gain confidence. It will pay rewards in the long term x

[msav]

They are in explore mode, will probably be that way for a few weeks, when they get bored with the current area it will be obvious. They will start scratching at forbidden doors and climbing up on sofa, tables, counters ect. They will climb curtains. Then maybe after everything is thoroughly examined they may start noticing you. Maybe.

All ferrets are different and will come to you in their own time, the important thing is not to force it and let them decide when to engage you.

You can get a cat teaser or a laser and see if they react to that. start playing with them without contact. enjoy your fuzzballs and patience is key with any animal and ferrets are no exception.

[Charlie]

Like the others have said they are still new and need to adjust to their new environment. They will start to bond with you and play with you once they are more comfortable. Give it time.

[unclejoe]

I agree with msav . They are still young and curious in a new environment. For now, I would be doubly diligent about thoroughly inspecting EVERYWHERE for possible escape routes. They can squeeze thru a hole as small as 1-2 inches at that age. Under sinks/vanities, kitchen cabinets, etc. Meanwhile, keep on playing. Ferrets have a pretty short attention span anyway, so take what they give you! There is a reason a group of ferrets is called a busyness.The more you give the more you should get back, but they are all individuals.