If you talk to any ferret owner, generally you find out that they have multiple ferrets. Ferrets love to be around other ferrets but if you’ve had a ferret alone for a long time, it may be more difficult to introduce a new friend.
Dominance is natural in ferrets, as is with other creatures. You have to prepare for the worst even though you hope for the best. Be patient throughout this process, and don’t rush your ferrets, it could make things worse.
As a general rule, things will probably settle after 3 days – 2 weeks, however sometimes it may take months for ferrets to accept each other. But once they do, its rewarding to see the bond between ferrets.
Here are some techniques to make this as easy as possible on your ferrets and you:
It is EXTREMELY important that you make sure the new ferret is disease free ALONG WITH your current ferrets. Make sure everything is current on their vaccinations before bringing them together.
It is ok (and generally done) to keep your ferrets separated for a few weeks while they get used to the smells and noises of each other. This can also keep the fighting to a minimum (if this happens in your case).
If possible, take your current ferret with you when you pick up the new ferret. This could allow yourself to see what kind of reactions you can expect. It may also be a more neutral ground for them to meet, versus the new ferret invading your current ferret’s home.
This may seem odd, but it’s known to work. Bathing them so that they will smell the same may allow some of the confusion to dissolve.
It’s a good idea to hold your ferrets in each arm so that they can sniff each other in the protection of you. This will allow them to be more comfortable to interact with each other. If one becomes aggressive, you can immediately isolate him to bring his tension and anxiety down.
Some ferrets will fight when meeting each other. Immediately scruff the perpetrator, gently shaking him. Scold them loudly and up close. This simulates the discipline their mother would have given them when they aren’t getting along. Then put the perpetrator in time-out to allow him to cool off.
Some ferrets immediately hit it off (Frank and Max did). As you ferrets bond they will start to groom each other, this means they have accepted each other. Just make sure you don’t leave them alone until you are completely sure they have!
Good Luck!
