If you have a pet ferret, you might sometimes wonder if they’re playing or fighting. Ferrets are playful creatures by nature, but they can also get aggressive when they feel threatened. So, how can you tell the difference between playfulness and aggression in your ferret?
First, take a look at their body language. If their tail is held high and their ears are forward, they’re probably feeling playful. But if their tail is low and their ears are back, they may be feeling aggressive.
Also, watch their eyes. Ferrets’ eyes can be very expressive. If their eyes are open wide and their pupils are dilated, they’re probably feeling playful. But if their eyes are narrowed and their pupils are constricted, they may be feeling aggressive.
Finally, listen to the sounds they’re making. Ferrets often make a soft “chattering” noise when they’re playing. But if they’re growling or screeching, they’re probably feeling aggressive.
If you’re still not sure whether your ferret is playing or fighting, try offering them a toy. If they take the toy and start playing with it, they were probably just feeling playful. But if they ignore the toy or start biting at it aggressively, they may be trying to tell you that they’re not in the mood to play.