Ferret training & body language

[Jake_the_snake]

I can say that my two boys are their usual scatty crazy selfs and they were neutered in August. No change personality wise except that they enjoy each others company more. They were starting to fight.

[snoopyfrench87]

i wouldnt blow in my ferrets face - this would be taken by the ferret as an 'attack' or 'aggression' on your behalf - i know he wont take long to forget it happened - but i dont like to punish bad behaviour with aggression personally

i have also never scruffed or shaken my ferret - i have never felt the need to be so rough with him - my ferret is very playful, happy and sociable but knows not to bite and doesnt, he just showers everyone with kisses,

when he was very young he tried to bite a few times but was simply told No and the interaction was stopped (he was ignored for a few minutes until his 'game' changed)

i would definately get your ferret nuetered, it doesnt change the cheekyness of fuzzy's but helps them build a better relationship with you without there hormones getting in the way, and is the perfect oppertunity for you to get him microchipped!

also make sure you ferret has access to food 24/7 - ferrets have a short digestive tract so should not have periods of starvation which would be harmless to most other species. A hungry Ferret is a Bitey Ferret!!

If you are worried about anything else feel free to PM me

[Silvermoon77]

Thanks for all the replies, guys .

[loonymoony]

I agree get him neutered, if you don't when he's reached sexual maturity and rut time comes along he will ignore you completely (they get a one track mind during this time!!) plus they get smelly, I mean I love ferrety musky smells but this is REALLY strong and not at all pleasant to us humans. Plus as already said theres less health issues and you can get him a friend, they really are soooo much happier in pairs.
I use the nose tap and 'no!' method and upgrade to a scruff pinch and shake (Gently does it!) when behaviour is unacceptable these are tried and tested and really do work, because you are imatating in essence what the mother ferret would do when not happy with certain actions, but you need to stay firm too and be consistant or you'll just confuse and I agree time out seems to make no sense to ferrets, forget that one.
Remember ferrets really do live to play and are cheeky by there very nature, it is part and parcel of what I so love about them. But rules are important to keep them safe and make life together happy and fun.Believe me neutering doesn't take the fun out of them it just tempers it a little, which makes there company even better cause you
can sneak a cuddle or two in to!