If you want to get a second ferret, and you’re wondering whether the two will get along, then the answer is that they should do fine together. Ferrets don’t generally eat each other, on the contrary, they thrive when they’re part of small groups. It’s only a possible issue for mothers and newborn babies, and only if they feel scared or threatened (more on this below).
The question has merit, since the ferret is a predator in the wild, known to eat pretty much any mammal, bird or amphibian that’s smaller than it is. They don’t do it amongst each other though, not typically.
Do Ferrets Eat Each Other?
Adult ferrets do not eat each other. However, a jill, or a female ferret, may eat its newborn kits, in stressful situations. You can definitely get two ferrets under the same rooth, they will do very well together.
Assuming that they have plenty of food, and they’re not left for themselves without nutrition for long periods of time, there shouldn’t be any danger of a ferret trying to eat another one.
That being said, I’d keep any small animals away from them, and this would include turtles, rabbits, and others that they might consider prey.
Should You Keep Two Ferrets?
Yes, generally it’s a good idea to keep two ferrets, rather than just one. Ferrets are incredibly sociable, and they require a lot of attention during those few hours a day when they’re awake. If you can’t afford to invest all those hours of playtime and attention each day, then I’d recommend you buy a pair of ferrets.
They will keep each other company, and will play together. They will likely also get into more trouble this way, but overall it’s better to have at least two.
Two ferrets also means a bigger cage, more toys and food, higher expenses with vet visits each year, so it’s not something to jump into if you’re not sure you can afford it.
Do Ferrets Eat Their Own Babies?
Unfortunately, it’s been known to happen, and it’s the female ferrets that will sometimes do it to their kits. It only happens when the jill feels scared or threatened, so it’s a good idea to make everything possible not to provoke that response in them. You just have to let them alone when possible, at least for the first week or so, after birth.
Continue to give them food and water, but limit your access to the cage otherwise. I would not do any cleaning in the first couple of days, just to avoid any issues. If you do need to change the bedding, do it quietly. Also, make sure you keep her as calm as possible, and limit the amount of noise in the room.
