When you decide to get a pet, you need to prepare for the unforeseen circumstances that might arise with it. You need to make sure you are prepared both physically and mentally to face it. Pets, like any other living thing, can be responsible for pains and pleasures. One of the scariest consequences of deciding to adopt a ferret is that you have to deal with ferret bites. Although in most cases of ferret bites, the after effects are usually mild and harmless, you should still take precautionary measures to ensure that you will be able to prevent any serious danger.
First of all, make sure you follow a properly structured vaccination program to reduce the harmful effects of ferret bites. You should make sure that the rabies vaccine your ferret receives is USDA-approved and must be renewed annually. You should keep proof of vaccination in case you need medical referrals. Tetanus shots should also be given and is a must, especially for ferret owners as they are at risk of being bitten at any time. Ferret bites are one of the reasons keeping ferrets as pets is not recommended, especially if you have small children in the home. Since ferrets have relatively poor eyesight, they are endowed with a very sensitive sense of smell and hearing. Because of this, you need to make sure that strangers don’t get too close to your ferret, as they could startle or provoke them, which can lead to ferrets biting them. Young ferrets are more likely to experience insecurity, so it is recommended that you buy or adopt a ferret that is at least 8 months old or older.
Most of the time, ferret bites can be inconsequential, but there are cases where they can cling to you and refuse to let go. If the bite is anywhere in the facial area, it will be more painful and very expensive to repair. So, as much as possible, don’t let them get close to your face. If the wound is bleeding, allow the blood to flow for several minutes and do not stop it immediately to allow the blood to really cleanse the affected area. Once the bleeding stops, you should clean it with warm water and apply a clean bandage or cloth. If the wound is deep and there is no visible blood, be sure to see a doctor within 24 hours. Although ferret bites do not pose any threat of infection, it is better to be safe than sorry. You may be advised to quarantine your ferret for at least 10 days after being bitten and watch for any possible symptoms of rabies.