Exact Answer: Average 6 Years To 10 Years
Ferrets are a popular choice as pets. In general, they live for approximately 6 to 10 years. They can be great companions for children and adults alike because of their playful nature and intelligence.
It is important for ferret owners to know the risks of owning a pet ferret and properly caring for them.
However, if one does not have the time to care for them properly, ferrets may not be the right pet. On the other hand, if one wants a pet that will provide hours of entertainment with minimal effort on one’s part, then learn more about this unique animal!
How Long Do Ferrets Live As Pets?
| Pets | Duration |
| Ferrets as pets | 6 to 10 years |
| Ferrets in wild | 1-3 years |
Ferrets can have an average lifespan of 6 to 10 years in captivity if cared for properly with the right diet and exercise. A ferret’s genetics will play a major role in how long they live, as well as whether or not they are spayed or neutered, what type of food they are fed, how they are groomed/bathed, etc.
Several factors determine the actual age of a pet ferret, including hereditary factors and environmental factors that include diet, exercise, housing conditions, weight issues that may lead to diabetes or other health problems, and local veterinary costs.
Ferrets can live ten or more years in captivity (provided their owner takes good care of them). However, some of the ferrets do live more than 20 years, and for this reason, it is difficult to get an accurate idea of how long they live on average.
Ferrets are good pets for people with allergies to cats or other furry animals. They are also excellent for first-time pet owners because they don’t need much care. All one needs to do is shelter them, feed them according to their diet, socialize with them regularly and clip their nails.
If one lives in an apartment building or small home, this will be no problem, nor will it break one’s bank either. Ferrets love to play, so make sure to find some tunnels and balls and let one’s furry friend use their space for a playdate.
Why Would Ferrets Live As Pets For So Long?
Ferrets live as pets for so long because they are the domesticated descendants of a species that has been living with humans for over 2,000 years.
There is not a lot of genetic diversity within ferret populations, which leaves them much more susceptible to disease than other common pets such as cats or rabbits.
Ferrets have a social nature and can become very attached to their owners. This temperament makes them ideal companion animals for people who work away from home or otherwise don’t have a chance to spend much time with their pets.
They also roam only part way out of one’s arms, which means they need less space than cats or dogs need—allowing them to share one’s homes more easily.
One should always remember that ferrets are not for everyone, but they make great pets for the right owner. Their mischievous and sweet eyes are undeniably adorable.
Female ferrets tend to go for 13 to 14 inches and weigh about ¾ to 2 ½ pounds. They can, ofcourse, grow larger if they are not neutered promptly.
Sometimes, ferrets enjoy challenging puzzles and exciting games, and as the owner, one needs to provide these games and toys. However, they are really quiet animals, and most of the time, they make noise when they are afraid.
Also, they don’t need a huge cage but having a bigger cage is better. They need to spend time out of their cage for regular exercise and playtime.
Conclusion
Every ferret is different and has one personality. Some are independent, and while some can become attached to the owner. Although ferrets live for 6 to 10 years, sometimes they can pass away by the six-year mark. Therefore, veterinary attention is an important aspect that affects the pet’s life span significantly.
Although ferrets have longer lifespans than rats or hamsters, it is still considered a much shorter life. Make sure to consult the veterinary doctor if one finds any health issues. With proper training, one can also take them out for a stroll in the park and start conversations with other pet lovers.
Reference
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195561694500019
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9781416001195500160
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