In the Doubs region near Valdahon, Antoine Sady and Cécile Mermet-Mear have embraced the passion of breeding pet ferrets. This interesting endeavor was featured in the show "En Terre Animale."
Ferrets often face a bad reputation due to the risk of bites. However, the likelihood of biting can be significantly reduced if the animal is well-socialized from a young age.
It's essential to choose ferrets from breeders who expose them to various experiences during the first eight weeks of life. If a ferret behaves well during its first year—showing no aggression toward other ferrets or humans—it can make a wonderful companion.
“These animals have a bad reputation, but once you break down the stereotypes, they can be perfect pets,” says Anthony Sady.
For a healthy life, ferrets typically sleep around 18 hours a day and should adhere to a day/night cycle. They are strictly carnivorous, using their sharp canine teeth to hunt and kill prey.
In captivity, this means they must be fed exclusively meat, which requires potential owners to budget accordingly for their diet.
Besides being pets, ferrets are also used for rabbit hunting and pest control in urban areas. To remain agile for these activities, ferrets need to stay slim, with females averaging 900 grams and males up to 3.5 kilograms.
Prices for ferrets vary based on fur color, ranging from 250 to 600 euros for rare specimens. Additionally, owning a ferret requires registration with a veterinarian, as their ownership is regulated.
One of the advantages of ferrets is their small size, making them easy to transport in backpacks or small carriers. They can also be trained to walk on a leash with a harness, similar to cats.
Like dogs, ferrets enjoy leash walks, exploring scents, spending time outdoors, and rolling in the grass. This is true for Samson, Antoine's ferret, who loves accompanying him on walks. Antoine cannot imagine his life without a ferret.
“It’s daily love, cuddles, and joy. They are incredible animals,” he adds.
Curious, unique, demanding, and playful, pet ferrets are featured in the show "En Terre Animale" on france.tv.