Have A Safe Winter Holiday
by Margaret Merchant
During the many celebrations that are ongoing in December, we need to pay special attention to keeping our ferrets safe. It isn't hard to do, we just have to put a little thought in it.
First be sure to keep your ferret away from foods that are bad for them or may cause blockages. While they may love that piece of carrot, they cannot digest it and it could lead to a very sad situation. Turn to your turkey or ham instead as a tasty special treat. Keep the sweets out of reach, too many can upset the tummy and cause blood sugar problems.
Secondly, watch out for your plants. Many plants are toxic and should be kept where the ferret is safely away from them. Some plants in this category are mistletoe and philodendrum. Be safe and check out the poison plant list provided by the ASPCA.
Thirdly keep away from things such as tinsel or string for your tree decorations. If eaten, these things can literally twist around in the intestines and cause major damage suck as gut strangulation. I haven't used either in years.
Fourth: Cover electrical cords the best you can if you have a chewer. Use bitter apple on them or cover with specialty items. Or get some conduit cover at Home Depot, Make your own with vinyl tubing from the plumbing supply.
Fifth: Be sure to keep your ferret up in a cage or closed room if you are having parties. Besides the possibility of being injured by being stepped on, the ferret could use the opportunity to escape. If you are planning parties, get your ferret used to wearing a collar just in case. Micro-chipping is an excellent way for a stranger to return your pet to you. It is an easy 5 minute proceedure.
Finally, if you are traveling with your ferret, be sure you fly an airline that will allow you to take them into the cabin with you.