They have tough skin and their play with other ferrets often involves nipping, and they do not always realize that humans have more sensitive skin. Children must be taught to handle ferrets with care, to avoid injury to either party. Not all ferrets are aggressive. But even the gentlest of ferrets will often feel frisky and playful. Ferret play often involves a lot of leaping, stalking and even nipping.
Many ferrets like to chase their human's feet and nip at ankles.
Some ferrets will also nip at hands or faces. A nipping ferret can be broken of the habit if an owner is patient, persistent and kind. But as with all bad habits, curing a ferret of nipping will take some work. Ferret owners often find that locating a competent pet-sitter is a bit more difficult than finding someone to care for a dog or cat. If you travel often for work or pleasure, this should be a strong consideration.