What Kinds of Food Can I Feed My Ferret?

Ferrets are mammals often kept as pets. Like many other domesticated pets, ferrets are carnivores. However, since raw meat could carry potentially harmful bacteria, knowing the different types of food you can feed your favorite will help ensure that it receives the proper nourishment.

  1. Premium Cat Food

    • Although owners have been feeding their ferrets cat and kitten food for years, Ferret Central points out that when feeding your ferret cat or kitten, choose a premium, high-quality food. These premium foods are more expensive than generic or even some name brands, but they are full of protein the ferrets need. Choose a dry high-quality cat or kitten food. Wet foods spoil quickly and do not have as much protein as dry foods. Choose a kitten food until your ferret is about 4 years old, then switch to a cat formula. This is because younger ferrets need more protein than older ferrets.

      You also might feed your ferret a dry ferret food. However, most ferret foods are made from modified cat or kitten formulas and are much more expensive. You can find high-quality cat and kitten foods, as well as ferret foods, at your local pet store or veterinarian's office.

    Treats

    • Just as you would with other pets, give your ferret a treat from time to time. Treats are good for a special occasion and for training your ferret. Consider commercial cat or ferret treats. According to Peteducation.com, liver flavor treats are a popular choice with most ferrets. You can find these treats at your local pet supply store.

    Fresh Foods

    • Offering a variety of foods can help prevent your ferret from becoming a picky eater. It also keeps ferrets happy. When choosing fresh foods, consider preparing fresh meat by cooking it. You also might offer cooked eggs. However, Peteducation.com recommends against giving your ferret junk food. It can upset your ferret's digestive tract. Avoid peanut butter, soda, marshmallows, chips, ice cream and other junk foods.