The ferret is very similar to the cat in its nutritional requirements. Both are obligate carnivores and for that reason, require a source of animal protein to meet their nutritional requirements. Because of their carnivorous nature, ferrets will thrive on diets that are highly digestible and contain high levels of protein and fat. The widespread use of cat and mink diets for ferrets is acceptable and appears to be adequate for all life stages of a ferret.

The exact amino acid requirements for ferrets are not known. However, it would be a safe assumption that there is a requirement for taurine and other animal derived amino acids. This requirement can easily be met by either insuring that the primary ingredients in the food are of animal rather than plant origin, or by supplementing the diet with such things as hard-boiled eggs or meat/fish (sardines being a possible choice). The inclusion of egg or fish products to the diet of a ferret will also help in meeting the fatty acid requirements for the animal. Use of a meat-based commercial food should provide everything that the ferret requires.

Strict carnivores have no real requirement for carbohydrate. Dietary fiber can be included in the diet to help with weight control as well as some gastrointestinal disorders. It is important to point out that ferrets generally have a high metabolic rate, and will tend to gain weight in the fall and lose weight in the spring. This may not be as noticeable with the artificial light conditions that most of our pets live in. Due to this high metabolic rate, ferrets will generally consume about three times the amount of food the average house cat will.

Obesity in ferrets will generally occur later in life when activity levels start to decrease. Prior to this point, it may not be necessary to regulate food intake. Generally, free choice dry food plus added snacks are an acceptable way to feed ferrets. The dry food is recommended because it holds up better to a free-choice feeding regimen and can aid in reducing periodontal disease.

Nutrient deficiencies and toxicities are largely unknown and rarely seen in a clinical setting. Some ferrets with dermatologic problems may respond to supplemental fatty acids (sardines are a great source of fatty acids). Most nutritional problems occur when a homemade diet is fed. Balanced homemade diets for cats are acceptable for use with ferrets. Foods containing lactose (dairy products) should be avoided in weaned ferrets to prevent digestive upset.

Ferrets can also develop lower urinary tract disease similar to that seen in cats. This is not as well documented in ferrets as it is in cats. Hairballs do occasionally occur in ferrets. These can be remedied by using a laxative recommended for cats every other day.

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