© Lindsey Turner at http://theogeo.com

Currently, my household is composed of two cats and a ferret. Chicken, the youngest cat, is extremely close to the ferret. She grooms her, stomps on her with startling force, and accompanies the ferret in her escapades. She even tries to sleep in her cage, which is alarming when I close the cage. I eventually notice the cat is gone, knowingly stick my hand in the ferret cube house, and see her little green eyes next to the sleeping ferret. Our newer cat, Skitz, is learning how to play with her with much confusion. Introducing cats and dogs to a ferret can be daunting but rewarding if it ends in a good way.

Most animals do not view ferrets as prey because their body language does not exemplify that; there are exceptions to this. Some animals and ferrets will not get along. This depends less on the breed and species involved and more on the animals’ individual personalities.

One method of introduction is to just release the ferret in a room with the other animal(s). Less time is needed, but it is more likely to result in a negative outcome. If you do choose this method, be present and attentive the entire time to intervein if necessary.

Look for body language. If you are not familiar with the body language of ferrets or of the other animal, look up videos about it. A google search will also pull up helpful pictures and articles. Never leave animals unsupervised with a free ferret unless you are entirely sure none of them will get hurt.

The more suggested method is to introduce the animals slowly. First, add the animal to a room the ferret has been in but is not at the time. After a day or so of doing that, hold the ferret securely and allow the other animal to sniff its butt. Stop doing so if either party show aggression and continue this until both seem calm. These steps are to ensure they are comfortable with each other’s scents.

From here, you can either have them meet through a fence in the house or in a room supervised. Some adverse reactions should be expected, but they should dissipate quickly and pose no bodily harm. Again, never leave animals unsupervised with a free ferret unless you are entirely certain none of them will get hurt.

Having one animal that is already familiar and friendly with the ferret can be helpful. If a cat sees another cat playing with the ferret casually, then it informs them of the desired dynamic.

As an additional tip, do not let the animals near each other’s food dish at first. Some animals have food aggression that puts any prowlers at risk.