Ferrets are highly social carnivores that require complex environments, companion animals and mental stimulation - many welfare problems stem from housing that fails to meet these fundamental needs.
Ferret welfare is frequently compromised by inadequate housing and social isolation. Small cages without environmental complexity frustrate ferrets during their active periods. Solitary housing is a significant welfare concern - ferrets groom, play-fight and sleep together in groups. Adrenal disease, which causes hair loss, weakness and hormonal disruption, is linked to artificial lighting conditions and early desexing practices common in the US trade. Diet management requiring appropriate carnivore nutrition is often neglected. Ferrets benefit enormously from free-roaming periods in a ferret-proofed room rather than constant cage confinement.