Breeding set-up tips

Before I begin breeding from my ferrets, what would be the best breeding set-up to make it easier?

The most safe and secure set-up for a ferret breeding programme starts with the hutch. The run and sleeping area should be made from weatherproof (and ferret-proof) materials, because it will be exposed to the wind and rain, snow and sun, not to mention teeth and claws.

The mesh needs to be strong, not lightweight chicken wire, otherwise the ferrets may bite through and escape. There should also be locks on the doors, strong hinges and a good preservative used on the wood.

The hutch must be out of direct sunlight and have a large, nipple-fed water bottle that’s kept full of fresh, clean water. Ensure there is plenty of dry straw, not hay, in the sleeping quarters. Cover the run in dustless shavings to soak up urine and poo.

With breeding, the most important factor is the parents. It’s important to breed from the right ferrets and not just the most convenient. Nobody would breed a dog with the one around the corner or the prettiest when you want working stock. The same applies to breeding ferrets.

Look at the hob or jills, depending on what you own, and only breed from healthy stock, with good drive and temperament. Consider where the babies will be rehomed. We need to breed to maintain our lines and stock, so everybody has a responsibility to ensure the breeding is right and suitable homes are found. SW

We have a responsibility to only breed ferrets from healthy stock, with good characteristics