Ferret happiness and health

[Nolan Tobin]

Hi! I’m a college student who has a little boy ferret and he is almost 2! He is my ESA and he is my first ferret. I would do anything to ensure that he is living a happy healthy life. I’m a very anxious person and am always questioning if I’m doing everything right just because I care so much and do get worried that my boy moose isn’t happy. He has toys and is free roam in my room and I take him on walks outside about twice a day for an hour each time. Although he loves it sometimes I feel maybe this isn’t enough exercise or engagement for him? I’m not sure but have always wanted to ask people who knew about ferrets more to see what more I could do or if I’m doing enough! I also have realized he has had diarrhea for a few days now and my Vet hasn’t gotten back to me and he has gained a little weight although I might be to blame on that with the treats but I have slowed down lol! I’m always worried he is sick but he has a great personality and likes to be active but seems maybe a little less this week. How can I ensure that he is healthy and happy?

[Corvidophile]

Diarrhea can be fairly harmless from eating something that didn’t agree with him or a symptom of something more severe, depends entirely on what you can pin it down to. Has he eaten anything new or strange? What is his normal diet like? He could have picked up something outside quickly without you noticing. Not saying you shouldn’t walk him outside, just that that’s something that can happen.

Biggest things you can do to improve his health is to feed him as much animal protein as you can, and not to skip yearly vet wellness visits. As he goes outside so frequently he should be vaccinated against rabies and canine distemper if you live in North America. As for happiness, you know him best! It sounds like your walks are great enrichment.

[Corvidophile]

Add-on I forgot: going outside a lot also warrants a flea and tick preventative, I recommend Advantage II small cat, monthly.