| OK - you've got yourself a couple of ferrets, and | | | | can indeed die, but because she isn't MATED, |
| you think that breeding ferrets might be fun, and | | | | which isn't the same as having babies. If jills |
| possibly profitable! | | | | remain in "estrus" they can in fact die. Fact is, |
| However, breeding ferrets is not for the faint | | | | being mated brings a jill out of estrus, and you |
| hearted! It's full of potential problems, so please | | | | can use a vasectomised hob (male ferret) to do |
| think long and hard before you go down that | | | | this. |
| pathway. | | | | 3. If you want to keep a whole male for breeding, |
| General comment to start with. Don't do it! It can | | | | they smell DISGUSTING! They wee everywhere, |
| cost you a fortune in vet bills, your house will | | | | drag their bellies through it in an effort to spread |
| stink (if they are inside), and there's a whole world | | | | their scent around. |
| of heartache in store. | | | | 4. New ferret mothers frequently eat their young, |
| Here are five great tips to help you make a | | | | if disturbed. If you are an animal lover like me, it's |
| decision... | | | | very distressing. |
| | | | 5. Some people think that they are going to make |
| 1. Do NOT mate closely-related ferrets. Ferrets | | | | a small fortune breeding ferrets. I've spoke to |
| are notorious for producing birth defects from | | | | many breeders, and I can assure you that very |
| such matings. Typically their back legs don't work | | | | few come out ahead. Be warned! |
| properly, at the very least. Don't do it. | | | | 6. I know I said 5 tips, but here's a free one - |
| 2. People say that jills (female ferrets) will die | | | | make sure you have an extra-tolerant partner, |
| when the come in heat, if they don't have babies. | | | | who's prepared to put up with all the nonsense! |
| Complete RUBBISH! A jill which comes on heat | | | | |