We received a lot of questions from our readers if it’s possible to buy a ferret online. And the answer is: Yes, you could.
But we strongly advise that you do not buy your new family member on the internet!
In the following article, we will explain what to look after when buying a ferret online and give you a step-by-step guide that will help you to find the right ferret for your family.
Websites with Ferrets For Sale
First off, there are not many stores that sell ferrets online (and that is good!). Most, if not all, reputable breeders will have you choose and pick up your ferret in person.
1. Carolina Ferrets
There are a few exceptions, such as Carolina Ferrets. Go and check out their website here.
“Carolina Ferrets sells directly to the public in the USA, not to pet stores or laboratories. To purchase a Carolina Ferret, you will need to contact us directly.”
Source: http://www.carolinaferrets.net/About-Us.html
They are located in North Carolina since 1997 and began raising angora ferrets in 2004. They are very clear and open with the whole process of buying a ferret.
All their kits go to the vet for the spay and neuter and descent. And while ordering is possible online, they encourage you to show up in person and choose a kit.
Of course, they show pictures of the kits, age, gender, color – and based on your preferences, you could make a purchase.
You can even ask to meet the ferrets at their house. A few other reputable breeders sell ferrets online, but overall – it’s best to do it in person.
2. Craigslist
On Craigslist, you can find ferrets for sale and meet someone with a ferret and have them ship the ferret to you.
In 99% of all cases, I would recommend not to buy a ferret on craigslist!
3. KSL
KSL has listings for almost anything in its marketplace. On their marketplace, you can browse ferret listings.
In 99% of all cases, I would recommend not to buy a ferret on KSL!
4. Hoobly
Hoobly Classifieds features ferret advertising on its marketplace. You can find many ferret listings by typing ferrets into the search box.
In 99% of all cases, I would recommend not to buy a ferret on Hoobly!
5. Facebook Groups
An excellent way to buy, sell, or adopt ferrets is by joining a Facebook group about ferrets. Facebook has several ferret groups. If you type “ferrets” into the Facebook search bar, you can find more groups.
While I would not recommend buying a ferret on Facebook, it can be an excellent source to finding a reputable breeder. You can ask other ferret lovers about their experiences with breeders and their recommendations.
Even though I do not recommend buying ferrets on craigslist, KSL, hobbly, or Facebook – there is a way for you to buy a ferret from these sites and have less risk of being scammed! One thing that every reputable ferret breeder does is send you the vet records and pictures of the parents of the kits.
Is it Cheaper to Buy a Ferret Online?
No. Not at all. It is not cheaper to buy a ferret online. At least not when you are buying from a reputable breeder.
Cost of a ferret:
From a reputable breeder, it will be around $400-$700. It does not matter if you buy online or not.
Buying Ferrets Online Tips
If you have never raised a ferret, do some reading about them. Do NOT just go and buy a ferret without informing yourself!
Ferrets need more attention and are more demanding than many other animals.
If you do ever decide to buy ferrets online or offline – make sure that they will get vet care. Make sure that the ferret breeder is going to spay and neuter the ferrets before you buy them.
Make Sure it is Legal to own Pet Ferrets in your Area
Ferrets are illegal to own as pets in the following states/districts/towns.
- New York City
- Washington, DC
- Dallas, Texas
- Columbia, Missouri
- California
- Hawaii
Tips for Buying a Ferret
You want to make sure the living conditions of your kit are good. Look at their parents. It would be ideal for visiting the breeder without making an appointment.
If they can’t bring up good reasons why they don’t want you to have a look – that could be a sign that they have something to hide.
Obviously, this is not always the case – but be suspect if they offer a meager price…
If you are at the breeders’ place, ask to see the parents of the kits you are interested in. Can you handle the parents? Do they bite, have poor quality coats, and overgrown nails? Those are warning signs.
The internet! Ask in Facebook groups, Reddit, etc., if anybody knows the breeder or has bought a ferret from them?
If the seller does not want you to come to his place to pick up the ferret. Ask why? Do they have something to hide? A reputable breeder is proud of his ferrets and kits and will not have a problem showing you around.
Is there a waiting list for kits? How many ferrets are there to choose from? If there is no waiting list and the seller has 30 kits you can choose from freely, ask him why that is so! It is not uncommon that you are put on a waiting list.
What about vaccination? Ask for a vaccination certificate from the vet. If they can not show you the one – that is a major red flag.
Be wary of sellers who put up a “new litter” ad as they might have just got a female pregnant to make money. If the conditions are bad and the parents look like they have been neglected, it is probably best not to get a kit from them.
How old is the kit? Your new furry friend should be at least 10 weeks old and weaned adequately from their mother.
To keep people from breeding unwanted litters, ethical breeders will force you to sign a desexing contract.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you with your decision about purchasing a ferret. Whether or not you buy online or offline, make sure that you are fully aware of the responsibilities that come with owning a ferret!
Remember: buying a ferret online is extremely risky. The seller will not be able to show you the parents of the kit. If there is no waiting list, it is probably best to avoid them.
Do not buy a ferret on craigslist!! They are a significant risk for scammers. If you decide to buy a ferret online from a reputable breeder, make sure you ask for vet records and pictures of the parents of the kits.
Good luck with your new furry friend! Always try to meet in person!
Buy Ferret FAQ
Where Can I Buy a Ferret?
An excellent idea is to find a breeder near you. If you can, check out local breeders. Your veterinarian is another place to look for a ferret. Veterinary offices and animal clinics may be advertising ferrets. Almost all cities and towns have stores that sell ferrets.
In addition to finding ferrets at reasonable prices in stores, you can also search online. You can find ferrets from many online stores.
In 99% of all cases, I would recommend not to buy a ferret online! It would be best if you always tried to buy from a local breeder or animal shelter.
How Much Does a Ferret Cost?
Prices can vary depending on the breeder, the quality of ferrets, and extras like a food bowl and toys or cage. In general, the price range is between $300–$600 for pet ferrets.
