Ferrets are highly active, social, and intelligent animals with complex welfare needs that are frequently underestimated by owners, leading to welfare problems related to space, social needs, and enrichment.
Ferret welfare is commonly compromised by inadequate space, social isolation, and inappropriate diet. Ferrets housed alone without conspecific company show signs of chronic boredom and stress. Their intense activity periods require large, complex environments with tunnels, hammocks, and varied enrichment. Feeding kibble-based diets high in plant protein and carbohydrates is associated with the high rates of insulinoma seen in the UK and USA. A raw meat diet more closely aligned with natural nutrition appears to reduce disease risk. Regular veterinary care including annual health checks is important given ferrets' susceptibility to several serious conditions.