Top Toys for Ferrets

By L. Vanessa Grude,
Ferret Association of Connecticut, Inc., www.ferret-fact.org

Ferrets have a fun-loving, inquisitive nature that needs stimulation and activity.  A variety of toys can help keep your ferret busy and healthy. 
A ferret can turn almost anything into a toy – your shoe, purse, or favorite fig tree – so it’s a good idea to give them playthings that are specifically theirs.  Each ferret is an individual, so what one loves may leave another indifferent, but here are items popular with most.

Tubes 

Ferrets were bred to hunt rodents and rabbits into their dens, so any tube is something to be investigated.  Two ferrets will happily chase each other over and through a tube.  Make sure the tube is large enough – 4+ inches is best.  Tubes can be found in pet stores or you can cut down plastic drain pipe from a home improvement center.

Nobby Wobby™ 

This toy consists of hard rubber tubes twisted into a ball.  They come in different sizes and some have bells inside.  Easy to pick up and carry, but resistant to chewing, the smaller sizes are perfect for ferrets and will be carried off to special hiding places.  Similar, but not quite as popular, are small Kong™ toys.  Be careful with generic or knock-off versions, as the rubber quality may not be as good as the name brands.

Ping Pong Balls

For young and energetic ferrets, a ping pong ball is an opportunity for a vigorous game of chase.  Many stores sell inexpensive plastic balls containing bells for cats, birds, and ferrets that are a similar size, but these do break easily.

Plastic Grocery Bags

If we ever ban plastic shopping bags, ferrets will mourn!  Whether it’s the enticing scents inside, the crinkly noise, or the chance to explore a toy that moves as they play inside, grocery bags can’t be beat.  If you’re nervous about potential injuries, cut the handles and use a paper punch to make a few air holes.  Paper bags are can also be used, or you can purchase "crinkle sacks" covered in fabric at pet outlets.

Squeak Toys

Many ferrets enjoy rubbery squeak toys, but be careful to check their quality.  A built in, as opposed to a separate squeaker, is safer, and always monitor rubbery items.  If chewing is destroying any part, discard it.  A few ferrets HATE squeaking sounds, so discontinue use if they seem upsetting.

Plush Toys 

Many ferrets love to chase and carry small plush items, especially balls.  Keep an eye out for small parts such as noses, ears, etc., that might be chewed.  Avoid toys stuffed with plastic beads that might be ingested if broken open.  Ferrets especially enjoy plush items with bells or rattles inside.  PetStages™ makes a terrific line of pet toys.  Human baby toys are also a wonderful option.  Baby toys are manufactured to government standards, are usually washable, and come in an array of fun styles.  Many have rattles, crinkly insides, and/or chew-safe rubber teethers. 

Fishing Pole Toys 

These are great for interactive play with your pets – especially if your ferret has more energy than you do!  Again, check for quality; if the enclosed hang toy doesn’t seem safe or gets mutilated, it can easily be replaced.
All toys should be regularly cleaned.  This gives you an opportunity to check them over for any rips or chewed parts that could become dangerous.  Keep two sets of toys and switch them – your ferret will think the clean toys are brand new. 
Always remember that YOU are your ferret’s favorite playmate.  Toss that ball, play tug with a stuffed animal, and you and your pet will both have loads of fun.