It is therefore a member of the weasel family, Mustelidae, and not considered a rodent. On the average, ferrets live from 5 to 8 years. Both hobs and jills have a natural musky odor, which can be lessened by an operation to remove the scent glands located near the anus.
Ferrets never spray their scent as do skunks.
Most breeders neuter and descent kits at 6 weeks of age. If not spayed, females may develop medical problems, which will be discussed later. Ferrets are very intelligent, playful creatures who do their best when their owners interact with them daily. They can be trained to come when called, to sit and beg for treats, and sometimes walk on a leash. Ferrets have a very thick skin and play very roughly with each other.