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Ferret
Playful, curious, mischievous
Also known as: polecat
- Adult weight
- 0.6–2 kg
- Life expectancy
- 6–10 years
- Size
- Small
- Exercise
- High
- Origin
- Europe (domesticated)
- Group
- Mustelid
Reference update: · Not veterinary-reviewedNo single breed standard — ranges are typical values for this group.
Health topics to discuss with your vet
- ●Adrenal gland diseaseBreed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●Insulinoma (low blood sugar)Breed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●LymphomaBreed-specific association not yet verified.
- ●Prolonged heat in unspayed females can be fatal (anaemia)Breed-specific association not yet verified.
Not a diagnosis or a complete risk list. A general condition reference explains a disease but does not establish increased risk in this breed or group. Unsourced associations still need verification.
Care tips
- ✓Meat-based carnivore diet
- ✓Distemper vaccination; ferret-proof the home
Calculators for your Ferret
Sources & review
Reference update 25 October 2026; not an independent veterinary review. Direct breed evidence is identified above. General directories below do not verify every listed health association.
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Rodents ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Guinea pigs ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Ferrets ↗
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Hedgehogs ↗
Weight and lifespan are typical ranges for healthy adults from breed standards and veterinary references; individuals vary. Not veterinary advice.