Ferret Nutrition
Ferrets are strict carnivores. This means that they require a diet high in fat and animal protein but low in carbohydrates and fiber. High quality dry ferret foods are available for a basic ferret diet.
While ferrets love the taste of sweet foods, these should be avoided, even as treats. If any fruits or vegetables are given, these should be strictly limited to 1 teaspoon per day.
Liver or fish cat treats or small scraps of fresh cooked meat can be given in limited amounts as treats or snacks but should never exceed 10% of the ferret’s diet.
Ferrets have a very short digestive tract and need to eat very frequently. If your ferret is not eating due to illness, it is important to syringe feed chicken baby food (human baby food) to help keep your ferret’s blood sugar normal.
Skunk Nutrition
Young skunks should be given a dry growth formula puppy food such as Science Diet Growth. After six months of age, switch to a dry high-quality dog food. This diet should be supplemented with a vitamin. We recommend Nutrical, a molasses based calorie and protein supplement, for skunks under 2-3 months. After this age they can be given Favor cat vitamins to help insure a balanced diet. In addition to puppy/dog food and vitamin supplements, skunks can be given a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. A hard boiled egg can be given as a treat once a week. High fat foods, Iceberg lettuce, dried fruit, candy, and moist dog foods should be avoided.
Because skunks hibernate in the wild, there bodies are designed to store a lot of fat for their dormant periods. Pet skunks do not hibernate and, therefore, never use these fat stores.
For this reason, many pet skunks have the tendency to become obese. It is very important to limit your skunk’s food intake and practice good weight management.
Overweight skunks are at high risk for joint problems, skin problems, and certain diseases such as diabetes.
Weight management is, therefore, one of the best things you can do for your skunk’s health.
