Ferret

Ferrets are important models for peptic ulcer disease, carotenoid metabolism, cystic fibrosis, and drug emesis screening due to some anatomical and physiological similarities with humans. They have also contributed to cardiovascular research, neural development and visual system studies, skeletal research, pediatric endotracheal intubation training, and the investigation of some types of renal disease. Today ferrets are unique models for the study of human influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-associated corona virus because they are susceptible to the exact same virus that affects humans.

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Ferret

Research Ferrets Co-nursing a Litter

Jills – female ferrets – are incredibly friendly and social and often sleep cuddled together. Research ferrets are housed so that they can exhibit their natural behaviors, keeping them happy and healthy.  Jills with litters spend most of their time in the nests nursing and cuddling with kits. Jills will…

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Ferret

Ferret for Research Naps with Her Kits in the Nest

Ferrets spend 75% of their day sleeping, but are very active when awake. They like to explore, forage, play, hide, rest, and groom and their housing should afford them opportunities to engage in all of these species-typical activities.  Enclosures often include hammocks, resting shelves, hiding places, ladders, and toys.  Ferrets…

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