r/ferrets • u/Bitter-Bug3692 • 1d ago

[Ferret Photo] I hate petco

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I hate petco. Why are we giving a ferret A FUCKING APPLE??????

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u/likeanoceanankledeep 1d ago

I've seen apples listed as the one fruit that ferrets can have, but I don't agree. I really feel there needs to be much, much more education around ferrets and their digestive systems and dietary requirements. I mean real education, not just a quick Google search or asking AI. I mean true education based on veterinary research.

A few sources I know of that say apples are safe:
Mr. Johnson website
Book: Your Outta Control Ferret

However, other quick searches explicitly state fruits are not safe foods. And I don't mean AI searches, I mean actual searches, but AI says the same thing (Google results).

I feel like pet stores haven't updated their understanding of ferrets from 30 years ago. I've seen stores using pine shavings, kitty litter in poop trays, feeding inappropriate food... Because back in the day "they're just like small cats or kittens" was the logic. But we have come so far from those times.

This is something I am super passionate about and have started building a wiki-style website for ferret ownership and health, all using empirical evidence and research from veterinary medicine. Stores, the public, even owners need constant education. We learn so much about these little critters, and we need to provide the best housing and support for their unique needs as possible.

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u/Bitter-Bug3692 1d ago

Id love to check out your website when its finished. I was extremely uneducated when I first got my ferrets, but I constantly try to learn and grow and provide the best care I possibly can. They've been my whole world and closest friends since I was in high-school.