Normal Size & Weight of an Adult Ferret

Ferrets are fun-loving, popular pets in part due to their size and portability. Adult ferrets vary in size and weight, but normal measurements fall within a defined set of parameters.

  1. Adult Male Size and Weight

    • Adult male weight can range anywhere from 1-3/4 lbs. to 6 lbs. The most common weight range for adult males is 2 to 5 lbs. The typical length of the adult male is 24 inches (including his tail).

    Adult Female Size and Weight

    • Adult females weigh anywhere from 3/4 lbs. to 2-1/2 lbs. The most common weight range for adult females is 1-1/2 to 2-1/4 lbs. Typically, adult females are 18 inches long (including her tail).

    Wild Ferrets vs. Domestic Ferrets

    • The length of wild ferrets is the same as that of domestic ferrets: 18 to 24 inches (including a 5- to 6-inch tail). They do, however, weigh less on average, with females being typically 1-1/2 lbs. and males about 2-1/2 lbs.

    Overweight Ferrets

    • Ferrets need a high-protein diet. If they're fed too many carbohydrates, they tend to gain weight and get lethargic. Only feed them food made specifically for ferrets, not human food or other treats, to get them back to a healthy weight.

    Underweight Ferrets

    • When ferrets lose weight to the point that their ribs show, especially if they have been eating regularly, take them to see a vet. Some common diseases, like insulinoma and lymphosarcoma, cause weight loss.