Choosing the right bedding for your ferret is a subject of much debate among pet owners. While bedding is essential for many small animals, the unique needs and behaviors of ferrets make this decision more complex. Ferrets are incredibly active and curious creatures, known for their ability to escape and explore every nook and cranny of their environment.
We've delved deep into the available information, prioritizing safety and practicality when outfitting an enclosure for your ferret. While some pet owners prefer to use bedding, others opt for alternatives like fleece liners or designated litter areas to keep the enclosure tidy and safe. This guide aims to provide a balanced view, helping you make an informed choice that suits both you and your furry friend's needs. If you want to dive deeper into the debate about ferrets and bedding, you may find this article helpful.
Since ferrets are notorious escape artists, they need a large cage with very small spaces between the bars to prevent them from breaking out. They’re also very active animals. Loose bedding is likely to spill out of their cage every time they move. Some ferrets will use a litter box if offered, so you can designate a specific space in their enclosure for this.
|
Option |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Wood* (including Aspen or Douglas fir) |
· Absorptive · Sustainable · Great odor control |
· Spillage is likely |
|
Paper |
· Soft and comfortable · Widely available · Absorbent · Sustainable |
· Can easily spill out of the cage during ferret fun-tivities · Poor odor control |
|
Bedding to Avoid |
· Cedar, which has phenols and other toxins · Corncob, which molds easily when wet and can cause intestinal blockages if ingested · Cotton wool, which is also harmful if ingested · Hay, which can cause upper respiratory tract issues if ingested
|
|
*Ensure any wood bedding is phenol-free. If phenols are present, they can irritate the skin and respiratory system of your small pet and cause issues for humans, too. Wood that is kiln-dried should be phenol free.
Of course, just like humans, your small animals have innate preferences. Even if you’ve done your homework and chosen what you believe is the perfect bedding for your pet, they might have other ideas. Your furry friend will continue to show its personality, and you can keep trying until you find the best option for your little pal!
How much bedding do you need?
Below are Catalyst’s recommendations for the amount of bedding each type of small animal needs. Of course, use your own judgment as you get to know your pet’s preferences!
|
Small Animal |
Gerbil or Hamster |
Chinchilla or Ferrett |
Guinea Pig |
Rabbit |
Rat or Mouse |
|
Habitat Size |
23” x 19” |
25” x 25” |
48” x 24” |
54” x 27” |
20” x 14” |
|
Bedding Depth |
4” – 6” |
2” – 3” |
2” – 3” |
2” – 3” |
2” – 3” |
|
Amount Needed |
43L |
35L |
57L |
72L |
20L |
