By:
Judith A. Bell, DVM, PhD

Ferrets require little grooming. They do lick themselves and may develop hairballs in their stomachs during the spring and fall, when they shed their coats. Hairballs may cause vomiting or even intestinal obstruction. Brushing with a soft brush or cat grooming mitt helps get rid of loose hair, especially when a fluffy winter coat is being shed. You can control the ferret's exposure to loose hair by bathing once a week and frequently changing the bedding in the sleeping area. Some vacuum cleaners have pet-grooming attachments that do not terrorize ferrets the way they do cats, and this is a very efficient way to remove most of the loose hair. Treat ferrets at least once weekly during the shedding period with a malt-based cat or ferret laxative (e.g.; Doctor's Foster & Smith Hairball Remedy, Laxatone). Ferrets find these products very palatable and cooperate in eating the laxative from the tube (Side Effects:Aspiration of the oil could cause serious effects in the lungs. May see a decrease in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, & K) when used frequently and long term. May see loose stools.)

This article was adapted from the "The Pet Ferret Owner's Manual" for PetEducation.com and is used with permission from Judith Bell, DVM, PhD.

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