Domestic ferrets are highly active, intelligent, social mustelids whose welfare is frequently compromised by inadequate space, social isolation, and inappropriate diet in typical pet-keeping settings.
Ferret welfare depends on meeting the behavioral needs of a highly active, social predator that explores territory intensively and needs constant mental and physical stimulation. Cage housing without extensive free-roaming time creates boredom, obesity, and behavioral deterioration. The health problems prevalent in domestic ferrets — adrenal disease, insulinoma — are partly attributed to early neutering and high-carbohydrate commercial diets that alter hormonal function. A diet and management approach mimicking the natural ecology of a small carnivore produces better welfare outcomes than treating ferrets as if they were similar to dogs or cats.