Can a ferret coexist in a house with 2 cats?

Question

I have two cats in my home that are a very big part of my life. I am interested in getting a ferret, but i don't want to keep him/her in a cage all the time. Is it possible for the three to coexist in my home without hating one another? Will they share the litter boxes??

Answer 1

I've introduced a number of cats with a number of ferrets and I have yet to have them even care about each other. I've been continually shocked at some of the initial introductions where they appeared not to recognize each others' existence. My ferrets are loose with the cats unattended a majority of the time and the only problem I've ever had is that one of my guys got a few scratches once where I think he and one cat were playing a little roughly.

Mind you, I wouldn't *assume* that all cats and ferrets will be like mine, since not a one of my cats has ever shown any hunt drive, but it's very reasonable to think it can work.

Answer 2

To answer your question, yes, they can coexist. My girlfriend has two cats and a ferret and they get along just fine and love to play chase with each other. I've never seen the playing turn violent either.

I would make the introduction gradual rather than quick and sudden. You may want to hold the ferret and let the cats get a sniff of it at the first meeting. After that, I would supervise the "kitty-ferret playtimes" just to be sure everything is ok. And don't worry if you see your ferret take a few jumps at the cats, this is simply their way of playing and I'm sure the cats will let the ferret know if it takes the play too far.

About sharing litterboxes, it's not something I would recommend. Ferrets are rather independent and can be a bit territorial. They like to have their own little space to do their business, most preferably in a corner of the house.

For some more basic tips on introducing a ferret to your cats, or to any other household animal, I recommend "Ferrets for Dummies" by Kim Schilling.

Answer 3

My ferrets loved my kittens. I have heard of many people who had ferrets and cats living together. I have NEVER EVER heard of a cat killing a ferret. I also know of a cat who is afraid of the ferrets. The only way to find out if they will like each other is to introduce them. Just like any other animal combinations, they may or may not like each other. If they don't, your ferrets can always have their floor time in a room the cat is not allowed in. Ferrets and kittens behavior is very much a like. With that said, an older cat may not fancy a ferret (or a kitten) because of their playfulness.

I don't know about sharing a litter box. If you decide to get a ferret, I hope your cats love him/her and they become the best of friends! P~

Answer 4

Fail to see how any person could coexist in a house with 2 cats a ferret .
Sounds as if it would honk pretty loud.

Answer 5

Provided that you provide the ferret with the much needed weaponry to stand up against cat claws, I don't see much of a problem.

Answer 6

we`ve had this before in canada, the ferret will hunt down and eat the cats, and the stench is ferocious, household cats are no match for a healthy ferret.

Answer 7

I think you should write a sitcom pilot around this question. It'll do for The Odd Couple what Fish Police did for Hill Street Blues.

Answer 8

I have seen the combo before and must say that it is possible. BUT, there were some occasional vicious fights between the two.

Answer 9

No not a chance it will hurt your cats.They smell 50 times worst than kitty litter.

Answer 10

yes it is completely possible, but you never know till you try it, just like cats and dogs.. some get along some don't