By Haley
Looking for a ferret for sale near you? Check out our list of the best places to buy a ferret around the world, with links to top ferret shelters. Want to know how to best prepare for your new ferret? Check out my TOP (sometimes surprising) supplies you need for your ferret.
Ferret for Sale: How Much Does a Ferret Cost?
A ferret for sale can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 depending on where you buy them. A ferret from Petco is typically $349. Prices have gone up quite a bit in the last 3 years (from $150 in 2020). If you choose to get a ferret from a private breeder, they can cost up to $500 for specialty breeds like angora (long hair) or hybrid (part polecat). Keep in mind buying a ferret is just one of the costs. Make sure to also budget for the latest recommended ferret supplies as well.
Where Can I Buy a Ferret From?
- Petco
- Private Breeder
- Shelters
You can adopt a ferret from a shelter, buy one from Petco, or purchase one from a private breeder. If you would like to find a ferret shelter near you, use this link.
Should I Buy a Ferret Baby or Adult?
Just like a puppy or kitten, baby ferrets will require more time with their owners than adult ferrets. They will need your help with potty training and learning other basic behavior (like how to stop nipping).
A baby ferret is ideal for someone with a lot of time and a passion for training. An adult ferret is ideal for someone who wants a pet that is (usually) already litter trained.
Baby Vs. Adult Ferrets: Our Personal Experience
The first ferret we ever bought was an 8 week old kit (baby). We dedicated 6 hours per day to spending time with him, litter training him and teaching him to cuddle. Now he is 5 years old and the sweetest ferret we have ever known.
The second ferret we brought into our home was a 2 year old female. She was extremely aggressive and bit us constantly. We believe this was due to the lack of interaction she received from her previous owners. We spent 4-6 hours per day for 30 days straight teaching her not to bite. And while we ultimately succeeded in retraining her, it was not easy. We ultimately adopted her out to another ferret owner because she kept bullying our other ferret. This is an adult ferret I would NOT recommend for a first time ferret owner.
The third and fourth ferrets we adopted were also adults (both 8 months old when we got them). Before they came to live with us, they lived alone in a dark garage. They did not bite, but they were poorly trained. Now, 3 years later, they are part of the family. They still struggle with potty training but the minor hassle is worth the joy they bring into our home. Unlike our second ferret mentioned before, these wonderful adult ferrets would have been perfect for a first time ferret owner.
The key takeaway: If you decide to get an adult ferret, make sure you spend a good amount of time with them before you take them home to see that their personality is compatible with yours.
How Much to Buy a Ferret at Petco?
A ferret at Petco costs $150 – $349 USD. They are usually 6-12 weeks old.
Where is the Best Place to Buy a Ferret?
The best place to buy a ferret is at a shelter. There are so many ferrets looking for forever homes and there is no greater feeling than knowing you saved an animal’s life. You can also buy a ferret for sale from Petco or a private breeder.
Should I Buy More Than One Ferret?
Ferrets are extremely social creatures and require a lot of attention to stay happy. Do you have 4-6 hours to devote to playing with your ferret each day? If not, we recommend getting at least two ferrets so they can keep each other company.
What Else Do I Need to Buy for My Ferret?
- Cage
- Healthy Food
- Food and Water Bowl
- Litter and Litter Box
- Tunnels
- Bedding
- Treats
If you’d like to read our in-depth review of the top products for first time ferret owners, click here.
Conclusion
If you are looking to buy a ferret for sale, it is important to consider what kind of pet you are looking for. Are you prepared to spend hours training a kit (baby) or would you prefer a ferret who already knows how to use a litter box?
Are you okay with supporting large-scale breeding mills orwould you like to give an older, abandoned ferret a second chance?
Are you looking for a unique breed (like an angora ferret) orare you fine with a typical pet store ferret?
Do you have time to devote to interacting and bonding with your ferret or should you opt to get him or her a friend to play with instead?
If you can answer honestly to all the questions above, you are much more likely to find the perfect ferret for you.
