Do Ferrets and Cats Get Along? Introduction Tips & Tricks
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Cats are the second most popular pet in most countries, behind dogs. And while ferrets aren’t as popular, there are still several hundred thousand of them in the US alone. They’re popular because they’re inquisitive and tolerant of handling, and they tend to be friendly little companions, although they do have a painful bite that they will use if they are handled improperly or if they get scared.
Although you do need to ensure careful and gradual introductions, ferrets and cats can co-exist peacefully, there may be some instances where this isn’t possible.
Ferrets As Pets
Ferrets are domesticated animals that are descended from wild polecats. They are popular because they are small animals that live primarily in an enclosure but they not only get along with humans they enjoy positive handling.
They are crepuscular so are most active at dusk and dawn, which means they are usually active before and after work hours. However, they do need plenty of time outside their cage so they can enjoy stimulation and enrichment.
Cats As Pets
Cats were first domesticated more than 10,000 years ago. Although they have been used to fulfill tasks like warding off vermin and keeping food stocks safe, they are most commonly kept as companion animals that share our lives and our homes.
They are thought of as being more independent than dogs, which makes them a good choice of house pet for people who don’t have the time that needs to be dedicated to walking and entertaining dogs. And they are inquisitive and friendly, which means they make great housemates.
Do All Ferrets and Cats Get Along?
Ferrets are not generally aggressive animals, but they are inquisitive and they can bite quite hard if they feel threatened. Cats can be very friendly with other animals, although some may try to chase a ferret if they view the small animal as potential prey or if they enjoy the chase. Remember that it is a cat’s instinct to chase smaller animals, which may include ferrets, but this does depend on the individual cat.
How Do You Introduce a Ferret to a Cat?
It is perfectly okay to have cats and ferrets that are never in the same room when the ferret is out of its cage. But, if you do want to introduce these two pets, the following steps should help ensure it is a successful and safe introduction.
1. Keep Your Ferret Caged At First
Your biggest concern when introducing cats and ferrets is that your cat may attack the ferret. As agile as ferrets are, cats are faster and better equipped to get away, and while your ferret can give a cat a nasty nip, it is unlikely to do any serious damage.
When introducing pretty much any animal, it is best to do it when they are both young. If you’re bringing a new kitten into the house, introduce it to the ferret while it is still young. If this isn’t possible, you may still be able to have the two co-exist peacefully.
2. Start When They’re Young
You shouldn’t just let the ferret meet the cat straight away. The two will need to get used to the smell of the other, and the best way to do this is with the ferret in the safety of its cage.
3. Encourage Your Cat Near the Cage
Put some treats in your ferret’s cage, ideally near the middle of the cage and not too close to the bars, at first. Then, put some cat treats near the cage and encourage your cat to eat them. The two will watch one another while they’re enjoying the treats and they will be able to smell each other from a safe distance.
4. Take It Slowly
Keep providing treats and letting your pets get used to each other in this way for a couple of weeks before you try formal introductions. When you do, ensure that you can grab your cat quickly, if needed. If your cat is comfortable in a harness, you can put a harness on so you can separate the two quickly. If things go awry, put the ferret back in the cage and remove the cat from the room. Take a break and start again the next day, with the ferret back in its cage.
5. Never Leave Them Unattended
Some cats may never be trusted around smaller animals like ferrets and even if they seem to be getting along well, things can change quickly. The ferret might nip at the cat and cause a reaction, or your cat may decide to “play” with the ferret when you’re not around. Don’t leave the two unattended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Animals Do Ferrets Get Along With?
Ferrets are sociable, preferring to live in the company of other ferrets. They usually get along well with their people and can live peacefully with cats and dogs. You should take things slowly when introducing them to other animals, however, and always avoid introducing them to smaller pets like hamsters or mice because these are natural prey to ferrets.
Cats and ferrets can both be litter-trained. But that doesn’t mean they should use the same litter tray. Some cats are unwilling to share their tray even with another feline member of the house and if it doesn’t like the smell of a ferret in its litter box, you may find that your cat ends up peeing and pooping outside the tray.
Are Ferrets Cuddly?
Ferrets are very sociable animals. They love to spend time with one another and you will often find them huddled together. They can also become very close to their human owners, and when this happens, they can be cuddly pets that love to sit in the nook of your arm or cuddle up against you on the sofa.
Conclusion
Ferrets and cats are popular pets and they can live in the same house together. In some cases, it is possible to let a ferret out of its cage so the two species can spend time together, especially as ferrets are larger than most animals cats would naturally prey on, usually eliminating the threat of attack. Take it slowly, however, and ensure you take your time getting them used to the smell of one another before you make proper introductions.
- Related Read: Are Ferrets Hypoallergenic? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Tips
Featured Image Credit: AJSTUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY, Shutterstock
