As obligate carnivores, ferrets have short digestive tracts and need to eat several times a day to sustain their fast metabolisms. Paired with a nutritionally complete diet, ferret feeders help you give your pet what they need to enjoy a healthy life. On top of making your ferret's food easily accessible, bowls and feeders also keep it separate from dirty bedding and other debris in the cage. Some ferret feeders come in a wide range of styles including:
When shopping for ferret feeders and bowls, prioritize durability and hygiene. The feeder shouldn't be easy for your ferret to knock over or spill, and it should be made from sturdy, easy-to-clean materials. To keep your ferret from digging in the bowl or tipping it over, consider securing it to the side of the cage. Just remember you'll still need to be able to remove it for frequent cleaning.
Special ferret feeders are not necessary for all ferrets. In most cases, a non-tippable food bowl is sufficient to contain a ferret's daily diet. Ferrets who require supplemental enrichment may benefit from snuffle mats or puzzle feeders.
The best feeders for ferrets are either heavy enough that they can't be tipped over or they clip to the side of the cage. The feeder should be large enough to contain an entire meal but not so deep that your ferret will be tempted to dig around in it.
To prevent spills, choose a ferret feeder that locks on to the side of the cage. Bowls or crocks made from heavy materials like ceramic may work as well, though some ferrets will still be tempted to dig in them or knock them over.