As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How Much are Ferrets? Breakdown of an Accurate Ferret Price
Dr. Abdul Basit Javed (DVM, RVMP)
Ferrets are amazing creatures, and for many people, owning one can be a life-changing experience. One aspect of ferret ownership that many people are unaware of is the cost.
So, How Much Are ferrets?
Ferrets, in general, are not expensive pets and do not require as much maintenance as other pets such as dogs and cats. The average cost of a ferret is between $50 and $350, and the combined yearly expenses of a ferret are usually less than $800, even if you go above and beyond.
If you’re thinking about getting a ferret as a new pet but aren’t sure how much it will cost, we can help. This article is a comprehensive guide about the cost of ferrets and all associated expenses, so read on.
How Much Do Ferrets Cost?
Ferrets are low-maintenance pets that cost significantly less than most dogs and cats. Because they are small creatures, they require less space and food to live comfortably than larger pets. Because of these characteristics, they are affordable pets for the majority of pet owners. So if you were wondering how much are ferrets because you are considering a ferret as a new pet, then this is good news. Read on for details.
The average cost of a ferret in the United States ranges from $100 to $5000, depending on where you purchase the ferret. If you buy your ferret from a reputable breeder or pet shop, the price will usually be higher. Adopting a ferret from a shelter, on the other hand, is usually less expensive and usually includes only shelter fees of less than $100.
Ferret pricing is also heavily influenced by coloring and markings along with the health, age, location, size, and vaccination status of the ferret.
Initial Cost Of A Ferret
Considering the cost of a ferret as $100-$200 and combining other costs associated with ferret ownership such as the price of the cage, cage accessories, bedding, food (dry), and veterinary fees, we can estimate the total initial cost to be around $400 to $500 depending on how many things you get and how good they are.
The Annual Cost Of A Ferret
How much are ferrets per year? The annual cost of a ferret is heavily influenced by the owner’s caring and management style. If you feed your ferret high-quality food or a raw diet containing real meat and other ingredients, the cost of ownership will rise.
The annual cost is also affected by your ferret’s health. The annual cost will be high if the ferret becomes ill multiple times in a year and is taken to the vet multiple times, or if any emergency treatment or surgery is performed.
The average annual cost of owning a ferret is between $400 and $800, not including the ferret’s purchase price.
The Lifetime Cost Of A Ferret
How much are ferrets over their lifetime? A ferret’s lifetime cost is primarily determined by vet bills and maintenance costs. Because a ferret has an average lifespan of 5 to 8 years, the average lifetime cost is usually between $4000 and $7000.
How Much Are Ferrets By Breed
How much are ferrets by breed? The rarity, coloration, and distinctive markings of various ferret breeds or varieties cause their prices to vary. Some ferret breeds are more expensive than others. The average price of some ferret breeds is listed below.
- Sable ($100–200)
- Black Sable ($100–200)
- Albino ($100–200)
- Champagne ($150–300)
- Chocolate ($150–300)
- Cinnamon ($150–400)
Which Is The Most Expensive Ferret
Due to its beautiful mild coloration, the Cinnamon ferret is the most expensive ferret according to our research. The cinnamon ferret can cost up to $400 on average.
According to some experts, however, the Black Sable ferret is also an expensive variety, with prices reaching $250 or more.
How Much Are Ferrets Medical Costs
How much are ferrets medical costs? Since ferrets are considered exotic animals, medical care can be costly depending on location, veterinarian experience, and type of treatment. Regular vet checkups, which typically include auscultation of the vital organs, a weight check, a regular physical exam, and a stool sample, can range from $100-$300
Because ferrets are susceptible to many diseases, including rabies, it is best to get them vaccinated, and ferret vaccinations usually cost between $15 and $20. Dental exams and parasite treatments are both under $100.
While surgeries and emergency treatments can be costly, ranging from $200 to $500 depending on the type of treatment and the veterinarian’s expertise.
How Much Are Ferrets Food Costs
Ferrets are small animals that consume far less food than a dog or a cat. A nutritious diet is key to a ferret’s good well-being and long life. It is never advisable to make dietary compromises for your ferret.
A month’s supply of average-quality dry ferret kibble can cost between $15-$20 per month. Although premium quality ferret food or raw meat diets are usually recommended, they can cost up to $100 per month.
Cost Of Ferret Accessories
How much are ferrets accessories? Accessories such as cages, can be costly, but they are a one-time investment that will typically last a ferret’s lifetime if purchased wisely. Premium quality ferret cages can range in price from $200 to $400, with some being even more expensive, particularly those with multiple stories. Check out our list of the best ferret cages for 2023.
However, if you want to save money, you can make DIY ferret cages at home, which are less expensive.
Ferret carriers can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 or more. Ferret toys, along with other basic accessories like nail clippers, ferret hammocks, food bowls, water bottles, harnesses, and ferret shampoo and toothpaste, will cost you between $100 and $150. A ferret’s litter costs about $20 per month.
Conclusion
So how much are ferrets overall? The trend of owning ferrets is rising, and more and more people are becoming ferret owners. Ferrets are low-maintenance pets that are less expensive than most dogs and cats. Because they are small animals, they require less living space and eat less food, making them ideal pets for people on a tight budget.
A ferret typically costs between $50 and $350. Other costs associated with ferret ownership include food, medical treatments, cages, and other basic necessities.
The price of a ferret is heavily influenced by the breeder’s or pet shop’s reputation, as well as the ferret’s physical characteristics such as color and markings. Some ferrets, such as Black Sable ferrets and Cinnamon ferrets, are more expensive than others while common sables are cheaper. All in all, any ferret you decide to take home, you are bound to fall in love with either way.
Check out our Amazon store for cool and fun clothes to keep you and your ferret stylish