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What Do Ferrets Eat

Feeding Your Ferret: What Do Ferrets Eat?

Updated on July 18, 2024
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Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

Feeding your ferret | Dry or Wet Ferret Food? | What should I feed my ferret? 

ferret eating out of bowl

Feeding your ferret

Ferrets have quickly grown in popularity as companions for good reason, and with that so has our knowledge and understanding of a species-appropriate diet necessary for their optimal health. Although many points of ferret parenting are compared to sharing a life with other pets, ferrets do require a specialized, unique diet to maintain their highest level of health. Ferrets are obligate carnivores and require a meat-based diet that is low in fiber and high in fat and protein. There are many options of ferret food available, however some may have higher quality ingredients or higher meat content than others.

A healthy ferret will not generally binge-feed to a point of obesity, and due to their high metabolism and short digestive tract, most ferrets will do best with having food available at all times to graze on as they wish, so free-feeding is recommended. As ferrets can easily overheat and become dehydrated compared to some other pets, fresh water should always be available as well to ensure your ferret is getting proper hydration.

Wet or dry ferret food

There are many high-quality ferret diets, offering you a variety of choices to pick the best diet for your companion. For growing juveniles or senior ferrets, there are commercial ferret diets that are specifically formulated with the specific needs for their life stage. Both dry and canned food can be given to ferrets, however dried food is generally preferred for adult ferrets to aid in dental health. However, canned or water-softened food may be preferred for young ferrets, those with dental issues requiring softer food, or to encourage a picky eater.

What should I feed my ferret?

While there are many dietary options out there for your ferret friend, there are some foods that should be avoided. Although some sources may advise that a high-quality cat food is an acceptable diet for ferrets, the nutritional needs of ferrets do vary considerably from that of cats, so it is not an ideal, species-appropriate diet. A diet formulated specifically for ferrets is much more likely to be nutritionally balanced, however it is always a good idea to check the ingredients as not all are created equal, and those that have heavy plant-based ingredients can cause health concerns and should be avoided.

Treats are also an important part of a well-rounded diet but should be only given in moderation and not exceed 5 - 10% of your pet’s total diet. Healthy treats include those that are meat or egg based including cooked or freeze-dried muscle or organ meat.  Sugary, dairy or carbohydrate-rich foods should be avoided as these are difficult for ferrets to digest. Additionally, there are many types of supplements and vitamins available for your ferret, however you should always consult with your veterinarian to see if these are recommended for your individual ferret’s needs.

Whichever high-quality diet you choose, ferrets can be notorious for being finicky eaters and may refuse to change diets or have issues adjusting to a diet change. If you need to change your ferret’s diet, it is best to do so gradually over the course of a week or longer to reduce the chances of digestive system upset for your companion. Always be sure to discuss any diet-related concerns with a veterinarian familiar with the care and needs of ferrets.

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