The RSPCA has received more than 2,500 calls with concerns for ferret welfare since the start of 2020 – and is responding to more than five reports a week of the pet being abandoned.
The shocking new statistics were revealed ahead of National Ferret Day (Sunday 2 April), which comes as the RSPCA tries to find loving new homes for ferrets currently in their care, many of whom have been rescued from situations of neglect and cruelty.
Since the beginning of 2020, the RSPCA has received 2,510 calls concerning ferret welfare – including 882 about abandonment, 512 about neglect and 95 reporting intentional harm.
That means the RSPCA is receiving more than five reports, on average, every single week across England and Wales about ferrets being dumped.
The charity has launched a cost of living hub to help ferret owners struggling with the rising costs – but fears that the financial pinch could put even more “misunderstood” ferrets at risk of being abandoned.
Dr Jane Tyson, small animal expert, said: “Sadly we are seeing very high numbers of small animals coming into our care – including ferrets.
“It’s shocking that we’re receiving more than five reports each and every week about a dumped ferret.
“In total, our call line has now taken more than 2,500 calls since the start of 2020 about ferrets alone, so there’s real welfare concerns out there about the way many ferrets are being treated.
“We think this may be because many new owners underestimate their complex needs, so we would always urge people to do their research before getting them.
“But if you’re ready and able to care for them properly, ferrets can make wonderful pets. Ideally they should be kept in pairs or groups as they’re very sociable. They can sleep for more than 80% of the day – but when they’re awake they’re very active and busy so they need lots of enrichment!”
National Ferret Day is marked each year on April 2 – spreading awareness and dispelling myths about the domesticated ferret.
Ferrets are often “misunderstood”, say the RSPCA – but have recently become very popular pets for their “charming, cheeky” character.
Dr Tyson added: “Too often, ferrets are misunderstood – but they are charming, cheeky, playful and inquisitive characters, and we hope National Ferret Day will help spread this important message.
“In fact, ferrets are so much fun. When they’re not snoozing, they just love exploring and investigating. Tunnels and ball pits are often firm favourites!”
In Swansea’ the RSPCA’s Llys Nini Branch has seven ferrets looking for forever homes – including two sets looking for homes together after recently being dumped.
Ricardo, Roberto, Reggie, Rufus and Rupert came into the branch’s Penllergaer animal centre almost a year ago after being found abandoned on the roadside at Pontlliw, in the South Wales city.
Ricardo and Roberto are looking for a home together.
Centre manager Gary Weeks said: “Ricardo & Roberto are both very energetic and love to play and explore! They will certainly keep you entertained. At times they can be a little timid with loud noises, so will need a patient adopter who can continue to build their trust and confidence.”
Cheeky trio Reggie, Rufus & Rupert are also looking for a home together.
Gary added: “The boys have bags of energy and are super playful. They love playing with their toys and tunnels – causing mayhem! They will certainly keep you entertained with their individual quirks and personalities.
“Rufus is a gentle boy who loves to climb and explore; while Rupert is a friendly lad and just like his brothers loves to play and jump about. He gets quite excited when you’re making his bed and will jump about trying to pinch his blanket from you!
“Reggie is the most timid of the three boys. But his confidence and manners with his human companions are improving more and more!”
Details about applying to rehome these ferrets from Llys Nini can be found online.
Almost 300 miles away from the Llys Nini Centre, at the RSPCA Suffolk Central Branch‘s Martlesham-based centre, there’s plenty of ferrets looking for their forever home chance too.
Roma & Marshmallow came into the centre’s care through no fault of their own – and sadly, as of yet, have had no interest from potential adopters.
Zoe Barrett-Lamb animal centre manager said: “This fun and excitable duo have recently come together and have proven to be a perfect pair. They love to have a rough and tumble play, while ‘dook dooking’ around, and showing their cheeky personalities.
“Previously Marshmallow was on his own and would get over excited, but Roma is slowly teaching him how to play but also how to relax and unwind for a cuddle and snooze!”
Mark & Kian are also based at the Suffolk centre – and sadly came into RSPCA’s care due to welfare concerns.
They are a super cheeky duo, who love nothing more than having a good play together – followed, of course, by a nice long snooze! Both of these boys appear to have had a lack of socialising in their previous home – so new owners would need to help them with this.
Zoe added: “Kian has come on leaps and bounds since being in the care of the Martlesham Animal Centre and is now quite happy to be handled by people. Mark is taking a little longer to come around and can still be a little fearful around people, but he is making improvements with the correct handling and exercise.”
Other ferrets in the care of the RSPCA looking for a forever home can be found on the charity’s ‘Find a Pet’ website
