Older ferrets often have additional needs and health care requirements than their younger counterparts. The average lifespan of a ferret is five to seven years and although many live longer a ferret that reaches eight or nine years old is quite old.

 

Natural Age Related Changes

With age comes a number of changes from minor coat and colour changes to serious health issues so it is important to regularly check an older ferret for signs of age related diseases. You can familiarise yourself with some of the potential signs and symptoms and consider a regular vet check up to ensure that your ferret stays happy and healthy.

 

As ferrets grow old, they may show behaviour changes such as sleeping more and playing less, being picky with their diet and becoming grumpy towards other ferrets, especially younger ferrets.

 

Dietary Needs for Older Ferrets

Geriatric ferrets require frequent high protein meals with plenty of fat content. They may be more likely to suffer from dietary upsets, such as constipation or diarrhoea so dietary changes need to be carefully managed. Hairballs become more common as you ferret ages and can potentially cause intestinal obstructions in older ferrets. Treats such as ferret oil and malt paste can help your ferret to pass any fur safely.

You may notice changes in your ferrets skin, fur and nails. The coat can become course or start thinning and their skin can become dry. Often older ferrets will develop thicker nails on their back feet and you may notice the nails become brittle and the pads of the feet become harder. Dry skin or hardened pads may be helped by increasing the fat content in their diet and massaging a little oil onto the pads.