Ferrets are fun, playful and mischievous creatures that can make wonderful pets. The biggest complaint among new ferret owners is that the animal likes to bite. Even experienced ferret owners may run into this issue.
Biting is part of the young ferret's natural communication process with other ferrets. They use their teeth when playing and wrestling with their ferret companions. A ferret’s skin is thick and able to withstand the rough play so when they bite humans, most of the time, they are just playing. The ferret will not realize that pain is being caused unless the human lets the animal know this is unacceptable.
Basic Steps for Training a Ferret
- Start training early
- Never encourage the ferret to bite
- Use a stern tone of voice to discourage the behavior
- Gentle nose tap
- Be patient
Getting Started
The easiest way to train any animal is to start when the animal is young and also at the very beginning of the relationship between the human and the animal. Start right away when the ferret first comes into the house. If the ferret is allowed to bite for any length of time before training begins, it will be much more difficult and take longer to discourage the behavior.
Anytime a ferret bites, just tap the animal quickly, but lightly, on the nose with one finger and in a stern voice say, "No!" The ferret may react to the loud noise along with the tapping at first with a bit of confusion. After that, the animal may only display its teeth and hesitate. At this point, repeat the action by just showing the finger and shouting the command.
Do not tap them unless they bite, and never tap hard or hurt the animal. The ferret will learn quickly to keep their teeth to themselves. If you have children, make sure they do not encourage the biting behavior in any way and explain the procedure to them if they are old enough. Some children will find the biting to be amusing and may taunt the animal. Always discourage this behavior.
Other Reasons Ferrets May Bite
Some ferrets will bite when frightened or if they feel they are in danger. The best way to avoid these situations is to establish trust with the animal early on and keep the ferret out of potentially scary situations. Other pets may be a source of stress until they adjust to the presence of a cat, dog or other animal. A ferret that feels trapped, cornered or in a new environment may also prompt defensive biting.
Also be cautious of small children who may be rough with the ferret or make loud noises. Introduce children to the pet slowly and carefully. And never approach a mother ferret who has babies as she will defend her litter.
With a little patience, most ferrets can be trained not to bite. Keep in mind that this is a natural behavior for them and allow the ferret time to adjust. Once training is successful, the ferret will be a very enjoyable pet.
Jennifer Zambri-Dickerson - Jenn Zambri-Dickerson works as a freelance writer and photographer and also as a part-time school teacher. She enjoys travel, sports, ...
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