Does PetSmart sell ferrets? (Try this)
PetSmart has become one of the popular leading stores in the United States, selling all kinds of pets such as dogs, cats, fish, birds and other types of small animals, as well as essentials for these pets.
But what if you’re interested in buying a more unconventional pet, such as a ferret? Can you find one on PetSmart? Read on to find out what I found out about whether or not PetSmart sells ferrets in their store!
Does PetSmart sell ferrets?
Unfortunately, PetSmart no longer sells ferrets at its in-store adoption center. Instead, it sells small animals like hamsters and guinea pigs, as well as essentials for ferret owners. Ferrets can be adopted from animal shelter organizations, private breeders, and Petcos if the state allows it.
If you want to learn more about where to find ferrets to adopt as pets, how much it costs to adopt a ferret, and more, keep reading!
Why is PetSmart no longer selling ferrets?
The main reason PetSmart no longer ships ferrets is the lack of the required level of customer experience.
Although ferrets are small and don’t need as much space as dogs, they require a lot of daily interaction with their owners to make ideal pets.
Additionally, ferrets are predators, which makes their diet critical and difficult to manage.
Among other things, they emit a particular musky scent that, as pet store employees have discovered, can unnerve other smaller prey in the store.
For these reasons, ferrets are no longer available for adoption at any PetSmart location.
Where can I buy pet ferrets?
Fortunately, there are several places that allow you to adopt a pet ferret.
While PetSmart does not offer pet ferrets for customers to take home, you can find ferrets available for adoption at:
- animal rescue organization
- ferret shelter
- peko
- Private Ferret Breeder
Note that customers interested in keeping ferrets as pets should contact their local animal shelter first, as rescued ferrets are more in need of a home and adoption is often less expensive.
How much do pet ferrets cost?
Pet ferrets command higher prices than their typical smaller pets, such as guinea pigs or even chinchillas, depending on the breed, sex, age and size of the ferret.
Typically, Petco charges about $150 for a single ferret, $250 for a bonded pair, and $239.99 for a single pup.
However, you can adopt or rescue a ferret from an animal shelter or organization for a minimal fee, perhaps around $70, and you’ll be giving it new life in the process.
Beyond that, additional pet ferret costs include professional veterinary care, specific dietary needs, and proper home setup.
Does PetSmart sell pet ferret supplies?
PetSmart offers a huge selection of small mammal supplies, so ferret owners can still take advantage of great discounts on PetSmart pet supplies.
You can visit PetSmart’s small pet section in-store or online to shop a wide variety of ferret-sized products, including:
- cages and carriers
- food and snacks
- Beauty Essentials
- habitat and hide
- Seat belts and travel essentials
- Pet Safe Cleaning Products
- Toys and Accessories
- Toys and Enrichment Activities
- training tool
Can you keep ferrets as pets?
Ferrets can certainly be kept as pets, as these small mammals make great companions, especially if socialized and handled from an early age.
Like pets such as hamsters and mice in the rodent family, ferrets are members of the weasel family and can be easily trained and played with.
However, ferrets are not accepted as pets around the world.
In the United States, keeping pet ferrets is illegal in some states, including California and Hawaii, and even in certain cities like Dallas (Texas).
Since animal prohibition regulations change frequently, it’s a good idea to check your state’s individual guidelines for which animals are allowed as pets.
To learn more about PetSmart, you can also check out our posts on Does PetSmart Sell Rabbits, Does PetSmart Sell Hedgehogs, and Does PetSmart Sell Dogs and Puppies.
Conclusion: Does PetSmart Sell Ferrets?
PetSmart no longer offers ferrets at its pet adoption centers. However, ferrets are available through ferret shelters, animal rescue organizations, private breeders, and even Petcos.
Ferrets can be very expensive, ranging from $70 to $250, depending on different factors. PetSmart does carry a great selection of small pet supplies at low prices, so ferret owners can take advantage of the variety and sales in stock there.