How Long Do Ferrets Sleep (And Why)?

Exact Answer: 14 – 18 Hours

A ferret is a small domesticated animal that has been bred from the European polecat. They are used as pets because they are playful, intelligent, and easy to care for.

Ferrets have black or dark brown fur with a white underbelly, feet, and face. Their ears should also be white but can be pink if they have been dyed. Ferrets will eat anything including meat, vegetables, cheese, nuts, etc. However, many wonder about how long they can sleep. They can sleep for 14-18 hours.

How Long Do Ferrets Sleep?

Ferrets are small, carnivorous mammals that were domesticated in the Middle Ages. They are used as household pets and for hunting. They weigh about 2 pounds and grow to a length of 16-21 inches. They have short legs, pointy ears, and a long tail. 

Ferrets are very active and playful animals and can be trained to do tricks. However, they require a lot of exercise and playtime and make good companions for children. 

Ferrets sleep for an average of 14 to 18 hours per day. However, this can vary depending on several factors, such as age, sex, and activity level. For example, young ferrets sleep more than adults, and ferrets who are more active during the day sleep for shorter periods at night.

It’s important to create a sleeping environment that is comfortable and safe for them. Some tips to keep in mind:

1. Ferrets like enclosed spaces, providing them with a small sleeping hutch or container.
2. Lining the bottom of the hutch with soft cloths or towels will make it more comfortable for one’s ferret.
3. Ensure there are no drafts near the hutch, as this could make one’s ferret uncomfortable while sleeping and make sure to check on them regularly.

Ferrets should have access to clean water and should be given a small amount of hay every day. They should also receive regular veterinary care, including routine checkups and vaccinations.

Why Would Ferrets Sleep For So Long?

Ferrets have an instinct to sleep in cycles. They will go into “sleep mode” for about 18 hours, with the cycle repeating every week or two. When ferrets are not sleeping, they do one of three things: playing, eating, or grooming themselves.

Ferrets play for short periods throughout the day and may seem like they’re just spacing out when one comes upon them in this state; however, it’s important to note that one could consider these moments part of their sleeping pattern because ferret brains show activity during periods where they rest (and dream). 

Ferrets have a high metabolism because they need to keep warm to regulate their body temperature during hibernation. When the weather becomes warmer, they can start getting by on less rest, so it’s important not to let one’s pet out too early when bringing them inside for shelter during cold weather periods like winter or nears its end (fall/autumn). 

Eating occurs mostly during feeding hours, depending on how many calories the pet needs each day.

Ferrets are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal protein to survive. Therefore, a high-quality diet is essential for their health and well-being.

A diet for ferrets should consist of various fresh meats, including muscle meat, organ meat, and bone. The diet should also include a small amount of high-quality processed pet food and fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s important to avoid feeding the ferret too many carbohydrates, as these can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Conclusion

Overall, ferrets sleep for about 14-18 hours per day, or close to six days worth of sleep. They are most active at night and will play until they fall asleep, then not wake up again until morning.

This doesn’t mean ferrets should never be allowed outside, but rather than leaving them outdoors all day, make sure to keep a particular time to play outside. Also, ensure to have a cage for them. 

The ferret’s cage should be large enough to allow it to play and exercise. Ferret cages have more than one level and include a sleeping area for the ferret’s nest in the dark enclosure.

References

1. https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/19/2/83/2749826?login=true 
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159116301125