If frightened, these animals can discharge a strong-smelling fluid from a scent gland under their tail. Domestic Ferrets are sexually dimorphic, with the males being twice as large and three times heavier than the females. Adults sleep an average of 15 hours per day. Adults ferrets average between 19-22 inches from head to tail. Females weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds and males weigh 3 to 5 pounds each.
Domestic ferrets exhibit a variety of colors, with albino being the original color of pet ferrets.
The incisors are highly variable in their sequence of eruption, but come in soon after the canines start to erupt. They require a diet high in protein and plenty of fresh water. Cows milk, chocolate, and sugary sweets should be avoided at all costs, due to the fact that domestic ferrets are both lactose intolerant and that processed sugars are poison to a ferrets' body. Fresh water and food should be made available at all times, due to the fact that domestic ferrets enjoy eating several small meals a day and are highly susceptible to dehydration and heat stroke. A good brand of adult cat food works just fine as food for a domestic ferret.