Poisoning in ferrets

If you think your ferret has been poisoned,  stay calm and contact your vet immediately. Never watch and wait. Here's more on what you should do and how to keep your pet safe.

If you think your ferret has been poisoned

  • Stay calm and remove your ferret(s) from the source of poison.
  • Contact your vet immediately. Explain when, where and how it happened. If at all possible and safe to do, carefully take the suspected packaging, plant or substance to the vet.
  • Follow your vet's advice. The vet will tell you what the situation is depending on the poison and how much of it your ferret has had.

Here are a few things to remember:

  • Never try to treat or medicate ferrets yourself. Some medicines for humans and other animals may be poisonous to ferrets.
  • Never try to make your ferret vomit. Don't use salt water, as it's extremely dangerous.
  • If their skin or fur is contaminated, wash it with mild shampoo and water, rinse well and dry.
  • Keep your ferret(s) away from any other animals to avoid cross-contamination.

Common ferret poisons

Common ferret poisons include common household and garden plants and human oral contraceptives.

Keeping your ferrets safe from poison

Follow our tips to keep your ferrets safe from poisons.

In the home:

  • Keep houseplants where your ferrets can't reach them. Pick up dropped leaves and petals.
  • Keep pesticides (such as rat baits) away from areas your ferret(s) can access.
  • If treating your ferrets with medication at home, separate them from other pets to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Watch your ferrets closely when they're running free indoors.

Outside:

  • Check your ferrets' housing and exercise areas are away from poisonous plants.
  • Keep their water fresh and change daily as it can easily become contaminated.

Finally, always insure your ferrets to make sure your vets' bills are covered, should the worst happen.