How to Choose a Vet for Your Ferret

Co-authored by Lauren Baker, DVM, PhD and Megaera Lorenz, PhD

Last Updated: April 11, 2019

If you have a ferret or are thinking of getting one, it’s important to select an experienced vet who can care for your companion’s needs. Ferrets can live for up to 10 years with proper care, and they need regular checkups to monitor for common health problems, such as cancer or low blood sugar.^{[1]
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Research source} Take some time to research vets in your area who have experience working with ferrets. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, evaluate your potential vet to make sure they are a good fit.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:
Finding a Vet in Your Area

1
Ask friends with ferrets to recommend a vet. If you already know someone with a pet ferret, they may be able to recommend a good vet. Ask your friend about their experiences with their ferret’s vet, and find out what they like or dislike about the vet. Ask them a few specific questions, such as:^{[2]
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- How convenient do they find the vet’s location and hours?
- Is the staff professional and knowledgeable?
- Is the vet good at answering questions and explaining their ferret’s health issues and treatments?
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Get recommendations from the shelter or pet store. If you got your ferret from a shelter or a pet store, ask the staff if they can recommend a good vet. They should also be able to provide information about your ferret’s past health history and veterinary care.

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Talk to someone at a ferret club. If you know of any ferret clubs or associations in your area, they may be able to recommend a good vet.^{[3]
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Research source} Some organizations, such as the American Ferret Association, maintain online directories of vets specializing in ferret care.^{[4]
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Check with a professional organization. Many vets specializing in exotic pets choose to become members of professional organizations, such as the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV). These organizations often keep directories of member vets. Check a professional association website like aemv.org for exotic mammal vets near you.
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Do an online search for vets that work with ferrets. Use a search engine to look for ferret vets in your area. Use search terms like “ferret vets near me” or “best ferret vet in Baltimore.” Look for vets that are convenient to your location, and read online reviews to get an idea of other people’s experiences with each vet.
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Decide what kind of vet is best for your needs. Ferrets sometimes require specialized care. In general, it is best to choose a vet who specializes in small animals or exotic pets, preferably someone who has had plenty of experience with ferrets.^{[5]
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- If your ferret has special health issues, you may need a vet who specializes in the kind of care your ferret needs. For example, if your ferret has cancer, you may need to find a veterinary oncologist.
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:
Evaluating a Vet

1
Check out the vet’s website. Once you’ve picked out a vet that seems like a good match, spend some time exploring their website (if they have one). A veterinary website should have information about the vet’s locations, hours, payment options, services, and medical specializations.
2
Call the vet’s office and ask any questions you might have. Before you make an appointment, call your potential vet to get a better idea of how well they will suit your needs. In addition to clearing up any questions about their practice, a phone call can help you get an idea of how friendly and professional the vet’s staff is. Try asking a few basic questions, such as:^{[6]
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- How much experience does the vet have caring for ferrets?
- How many ferret patients does the vet currently have?
- Is the vet a member of any professional organizations for exotic pet vets (e.g., the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians)?
- Is the vet’s office equipped to deal with medical emergencies?
- What kinds of payment options are available?
3
Meet with the vet before you get a ferret, if you can. If you don’t have a ferret yet, it is a good idea to establish a relationship with a vet first.^{[7]
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Research source} That way, you can start getting your new ferret the care it needs immediately. A vet can also advise you ahead of time about how to care for a new ferret and what sorts of issues you can expect. They may even be able to recommend a reputable pet store or shelter.
- Ferret breeders are incredibly rare. However, if you can find a reputable ferret breeder, then this is another option.
4
Assess your first visit. Consider your initial vet visit with your ferret to be a test run. Check to see that the office is clean and well maintained, and pay attention to how professional and efficient the staff is. Focus on the manner in which the vet and their staff interact with your ferret, and whether they adequately address your questions and concerns. If you aren’t satisfied with your visit, consider finding a different vet.
- Do your research to find the right vet, but also trust your instincts. If the vet just doesn't feel like a good fit for you and your furry pal, keep searching.
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