Ferret vs. Mouse – Which Pet Is Better?
When it comes to selecting a pet, there are a plethora of different animals to choose from. But if you’re looking for something smaller, your two main options are a ferret or a mouse. While both make great companions, there are several differences between the two to consider when making your choice.
Time Commitment
When it comes to a time commitment, ferrets require more care. Mice need only basic daily care, like feeding and cage cleaning. In comparison, ferrets require daily mental and physical exercise and enrichment, just like a dog would. Additionally, you will need to take your ferret in for regular vet visits, trim its nails, and monitor its diet.
Noise Level
Mice are much quieter animals than ferrets. You might hear an occasional squeak or two from your pet mouse, but overall these animals are fairly quiet and tend to mostly stay in hiding. Ferrets, on the other hand, can be quite loud and vocal. If you’re looking for a quiet pet, a mouse is definitely the better choice.
Cost
Owning a ferret can be a significant investment. In addition to the cost of the animal itself, there are supplies to purchase and regular vet checkups to pay for. A pet mouse cost significantly less, with basic supplies and daily care only running a few dollars a month.
Lifespan
One of the major differences between a ferret and mouse comes down to their lifespans. A mouse can live around 2-3 years, while a ferret can live up to 8-10 years. If you’re looking for a longtime companion, a ferret is the better choice.
Personality
When it comes to personality, mice and ferrets behave differently. Mice are usually quite skittish and prefer to stay hidden away. Ferrets, on the other hand, are quite social and playful creatures, darting around their environment and playing with their owners. If you’re looking for an interactive pet, a ferret would be the ideal choice.
The Verdict
No matter which pet you decide to go with, both ferrets and mice can make great companions. When making your choice, it’s important to consider factors such as time commitment, noise level, cost, lifespan, and personality. Once you decide what factors are most important to you, you can make an informed decision about which pet is better for you.