Rabies In 1990, the United States Department of Agriculture approved a rabies vaccine for domestic ferrets. Because the shedding period for the rabies virus in domestic ferrets is still unknown, many public health officials recommend that any ferret who bites be euthanized and tested for rabies. In many cases, however, the ferret has been vaccinated and it is highly probable that the ferret has not been exposed to rabies or a potentially rabid animal. Responsible Care Ferrets have sharp teeth and occasionally bite when startled, excited, or handled improperly. Keeping ferrets humanely may be a challenge for individuals who are unfamiliar with their needs and habits.
Ferrets sleep much of the time, but when awake are both curious and highly active.
They should not be confined to a cage at all times, yet need close supervision when allowed out of their enclosures. Like other companion animals, ferrets require periodic veterinary check-ups and veterinary care when needed. Sterilization Pet ferrets must be spayed or neutered to prevent them from adding to the numbers of unwanted and homeless ferrets in need of shelter and rescue. Sterilization is particularly important for female ferrets, who can contract a disease called fatal aplastic anemia if kept in prolonged estrus. Whenever possible, shelters should work with responsible local ferret-adoption groups that can assist in the placement of homeless ferrets into lifelong homes.