odor

FERRET ODOR

Ferrets are fur-bearing mammals.   They consume high-protein, high-fat diets.  Their fur has natural oils that repel water.  As a consequence they have a natural musky odor.  
 
During the times of year when reproductive activities are ongoing, the odor of male ferrets (hobs) becomes much more noticeable.  This may be due in part to an increase in male sex hormones as well as territorial marking with urine.        
 
Ferrets of both sexes also have anal scent glands.  Much like skunks, ferrets can release secretions from their scent glands when challenged or fearful.   The scent released dissipates much more quickly than that from a skunk, but can leave an unpleasant odor that some find quite objectionable.  Although many private ferret breeders do not descent their ferrets, owners may wish to have these glands surgically removed if the ferret releases scent frequently.    
 
Here are some tips on reducing ferret odor:
 

• Maintain a clean litter box.  Litter boxes should be cleaned one or more times a day.  This will significantly reduce ferret odor.

 

• Use a litter that has maximum absorbing capacity.  Some also control odor.  [See LITTER.]

 

• Clean ferret bedding once a week.  This is one of the most effective ways to keep your ferret smelling fresh. .

 

• Urine and feces are responsible for the majority of ferret “odor.”   Odor can be controlled by giving your ferret a proper diet.  [See NUTRITION]

 

• Make sure your ferret’s cage and bedding is made of washable materials.  Cages can be plastic or coated wire.  Wooden cages will hold the odor in.  Bedding should be of cotton or other materials that is easily washed and will hold up to frequent washings.

 

• Bad breath can result from illnesses, bad teeth, or a poor diet.  Check ferret's health, get his teeth cleaned.  Check his diet.  Your ferret could have dental problems.  A ferret needs regular dental care and cleanings.

 

• Check those ears!  A common contributor to strong ferret odors is dirty ears, or ear mites [See Ear Mites].

 

• Do not bathe your ferret too often.  Bathing strips the ferret’s skin and fur of essential oils and dries the fur and skin.   Dry skin is itchy skin, which is uncomfortable for your ferret.

 

• If your ferret has not been altered, have your hob neutered and your jill spayed.  By far the strongest contributor to ferret odor is not the scent glands, but natural sex hormones.  Descenting a ferret doesn't change the day-to-day smell.  Only the scent glands near the tail are removed, which prevents the ferret from releasing musk, but does not reduce the normal musky oils which come from glands throughout the skin.  The best way to reduce odor is to spay or neuter your ferret, which has many other health benefits for your ferret.