Do you have a pet ferret? If so, you may be wondering how long can ferrets go without food and water.
First and foremost, it’s important to know that ferrets should not be left alone and unsupervised for more than the usual amount of time spent at work. Ferrets have a fast metabolism and need access to fresh water and food at all times, and should be seen by a veterinarian if they refuse to eat or drink for more than 12 hours. Leaving them home alone for 12 hours or more, without fresh food or water, is out of the question, and can seriously damage their health and wellbeing.
Here’s what you need to know about giving your furry friend the care they need.
How Long Can Ferrets Go Without Food and Water?
When it comes to how long a ferret can go without food or water, the answer varies depending on their size, age, and overall health. Ferrets should always have access to fresh food and water, and should not need to spend any amount of time without it. Due to their rapid metabolism, anything over 12 to 24 hours can put their health at serious risk. They are not the type of pet to leave home unsupervised while you nip off for a weekend away. If you are planning a trip or think you might be out for more than a day, they need to be provided for, by a pet sitter or another responsible individual who can meet all of their needs.
Ferrets Need More Food Than You May Think!
It’s no secret that ferrets love to eat, but you may be surprised to learn that they actually need more food than cats and dogs in relative relation to their size. That’s why it’s important to provide your ferret with a steady supply of quality nutrition. Without enough food and water, ferrets can become weak and malnourished, suffer from low blood sugar and dehydration, both of which are life threatening.
What If I Just Forgot to Feed My Ferret for 2 Days?
You may find this hard to hear, but forgetting to feed your ferret for anything over 12 hours is highly irresponsible and damaging to their health and welfare; it could put their life at risk. Having a ferret is a great responsibility and it should not be taken lightly. If you have a busy schedule, reconsider owning a ferret as they require constant care. Make sure that you stay on top of feeding your furry friend and offer them plenty of fresh water each day.
Set a reminder if you need to, as this can help you get into a routine of feeding your pet at the same time each day so that you don’t skip any meals. Make sure they always have access to fresh water.
When to See a Vet
If your ferret has gone longer than 12 hours without food or water, or they are lethargic and quiet, it’s important to seek medical help right away. Your ferret can quickly become dehydrated without water or hypoglycemic due to low blood glucose from not eating, both of which can lead to serious health consequences or even death.
A veterinarian can provide supportive treatments, such as providing fluids, and monitor your pet’s recovery to make sure they get back on track.
Ferret Care Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best type of food for ferrets?
Ferrets are obligate carnivores, so it is essential that they are fed a diet rich in animal protein, including species-specific commercial kibble, as well as a variety of fresh meat ingredients. This is another reason why you can’t just put out some food and disappear for a few days – meat-based food is likely to spoil if not eaten immediately, so any food left out for more than a few hours could put your ferret’s health at risk.
How much should I feed my ferret?
Ferrets should have constant access to food and fresh water so they can eat continuously throughout the day, in order to meet their high nutritional and metabolic needs. The amount of food they eat may vary depending on your pet’s size and activity level, but it should be consistent. If there is any doubt, please consult your vet.
How often should I give my ferret water?
Ferrets should have constant access to fresh, clean water at all times. Change the water once a day or as needed to ensure it’s always clean.
What are the signs of dehydration in ferrets?
Signs of dehydration in ferrets include sunken eyes, dry nose or mouth, reduced skin elasticity when a small fold is made by gentle pinching, lethargy, excess sleeping, and lack of appetite.
Is it normal for ferrets to go a few days without eating?
Absolutely not and it’s life threatening. Ferrets should be eating consistently throughout the day, and any lack of appetite lasting for 12 hours or more, especially if combined with reduced drinking and lethargy, requires immediate veterinary attention.
Can ferrets eat human food?
It’s important to avoid giving your ferret any human food as their nutritional needs are very different from ours. Stick to high-quality kibble formulated specifically for ferrets.
How can I make sure my ferret gets enough nutrition?
Feed your ferret high-quality kibble according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your vet’s recommendations and provide them with plenty of fresh water each day. Kibble should be available at all times so your ferret can eat continuously throughout the day. Also, make sure that you take your pet to the vet for regular checkups to ensure they’re in peak condition.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to provide your ferret with the necessary nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy—and that includes a steady supply of both food and water. Without the proper nutrition or fresh water, they can quickly become very sick.
So, make sure to keep an eye on their eating habits and provide them with plenty of quality food and fresh water!
Featured Image Credit: Couperfield, Shutterstock
Contents
- How Long Can Ferrets Go Without Food and Water?
- Ferrets Need More Food Than You May Think!
- What If I Just Forgot to Feed My Ferret for 2 Days?
- When to See a Vet
- Ferret Care Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the best type of food for ferrets?
- How much should I feed my ferret?
- How often should I give my ferret water?
- What are the signs of dehydration in ferrets?
- Is it normal for ferrets to go a few days without eating?
- Can ferrets eat human food?
- How can I make sure my ferret gets enough nutrition?
- Conclusion
