How to Reduce Odor from Your Pet Ferret

Ferrets are known for their musky odor. While these excitable weasels can make entertaining pets, many potential pet owners are put off by the smell. When ferrets are purchased in the U.S. they have usually been spayed or neutered and descented. Descenting is the removal of a ferret's anal gland, which is similar to that of a skunk. While descenting will eliminate the possibility of those smelly secretions when your fuzzy friend feels threatened, it does not take care of everyday ferret odors. The good news is that there are several ways to reduce that everyday odor.

Things You'll Need

  • Ferret shampoo
  • Ferret deodorizing spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your ferret. Regular baths will help keep that musky smell away, though ferrets should only be bathed every one to three months. Over bathing will remove too much of their natural oils and can cause their skin to become dry and itchy. Use only a special ferret shampoo.

    • 2

      Use a deodorizing spray in between baths. This spray can be used daily, though that is not often necessary. When you notice your ferret is becoming a little smelly, just give it a few sprays.

    • 3

      Remove waste from your ferret's cage every day. Ferrets like to be clean and will urinate and defecate in the same corner. A high-backed litter box is ideal, and the litter should be completely replaced once a week.

    • 4

      Wash or replace all of your fuzzy's bedding once a week. A ferret's bedding should consist of towels, blankets or old t-shirts, and hammocks. You should not use woodchips. Disinfect the bottom of your ferret's cage and any toys once a week.

    • 5

      Feed your ferret a proper diet. Ferrets should only eat high-quality ferret food, never cat food. A high-quality diet will help decrease your ferret's everyday odor.