Ferrets that are kept as pets require just as much care and attention as any other house pet (sometimes even more!) Whether you're a new ferret parent or just browsing for new dried food to feed your furry friend, we've got you covered.
We've scoured the Internet for the best and most nutritious dried ferret food on the market to date and came up with a top 10 list. Wysong's Ferret Epigen 90 was one of our top picks because of its high meat ratio and strictly starch-free ingredients. Take a look at nine other great options, and read until the end for our buying guide, which was checked by a veterinary technician and is full of helpful shopping tips!
Quick List - Top Ferret Foods
Oxbow
Formulated With High-Quality Animal Proteins for Optimal Ferret Health
Marshall
Developed with Veterinarians and Nutritionists for Optimal Ferret Health
Wysong
The First Starch-Free Extruded Dry Diet for Ferrets, Promoting Natural Health
Cheyenne Williams is a Certified Veterinary Assistant, currently enrolled in college for veterinary technology, working in vet hospitals since she was 16. She is also the owner of Shiney Day Specialized Pet Care in Sarasota, Florida, founded in 2015. Cheyenne has worked with professionals from pet sitters and groomers to veterinary specialists in a hospital setting.
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Buying ferret food that meets your pet's nutritional needs should be simple, but that's not always the case. We're here to help you with this handy buying guide that will show you what food is best for your furry friend.
Ferrets are strict carnivores, much like cats, and require a solely meat-based diet. These animals have a very high metabolism and sometimes eat up to 10 small meals in a day! Because of this, they must get a lot of energy from their diet to grow and survive.
Any ferret that is weaned after two months is already considered an adult. Baby and adult ferrets consume the same diet high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber.
Protein should consist of around 30 to 40 percent of the diet, while fat should be approximately 15 to 20 percent. Fiber, on the other hand, should only be about three percent of their diet.
When analyzing the ingredients of processed dry foods, the foods listed at the top are generally the ones with the highest content.
Whenever possible, go for protein sources that are not labeled as meat by-products. These by-products are the leftover meat and poultry that don’t make it into human food; they are difficult to digest and not a good source of protein.
Instead, go for dried pellets that list chicken and other high protein meat as their main ingredient. Look for ingredients such as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that are typically found in poultry fat; these fats are beneficial for your ferret. Taurine, an amino acid that strengthens your ferret's heart and eyes, is another ingredient to look for.
Ferrets require a diet that is very high in protein and fat, and low in carbohydrates and fiber. The best way to provide your ferret with the nutrients they need is to feed them a commercially prepared ferret food. These foods are specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of ferrets, and will help keep them healthy and happy.
When buying ferret food, always go for one advertised as easily digestible. Tied to a ferret’s high metabolism is their unique digestive system, which replenishes their energy in a span of three to four hours! This means that if the food they consume can not easily be digested, they might lose out on needed nutrients.
Go for slow-cooked commercial foods rather than over-processed ones. Slow-cooked food ensures good nutrient absorption for your furry friend, while over-processed food could lead to dental disease, kidney stones, and other health issues.
When it comes to what you should avoid feeding your ferret, steer clear of foods with artificial preservatives and sweeteners. These can cause digestive problems and might even be toxic to your ferret. It’s also best to stay away from dog and cat food, as these do not have the right nutrients that a ferret needs to stay healthy.
Because ferrets are strict carnivores, they cannot properly digest carbohydrates and plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, and grains. In addition, steer away from dairy products and foods high in sugar.
A ferret’s digestive tract lacks the bacteria-producing cecum that breaks down complex carbohydrates. If a ferret consumes a high carbohydrate diet, it leads to disease and poor growth.
So, even though ferrets love sweet fruity tastes, keep these off their dinner plate for their own good.
Additionally, avoid feeding your ferret foods with high sugar content. While they might enjoy the sweetness, too much sugar can lead to obesity and other health problems down the road. Instead, opt for foods that are high in protein and low in fat.
The same goes for dairy products. Ferrets are unable to properly digest lactose, the main sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Lactose intolerance in ferrets can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. When in doubt, always consult with your veterinarian to find out what type of food is best for your ferret’s specific dietary needs.
Apart from vitamin supplements that boost the immune system of a ferret, you can also give them occasional treats. Ferrets love treats and they make good training aids.
Some treats you can give your ferret are hard-boiled or scrambled eggs, bits of cooked meat like turkey or lamb, cat treats, or even freeze-dried liver treats.
Giving eggs as treats should be limited to once or twice a week; too much of this treat could lead to constipation. Always remember to give treats in small quantities!
Just like with anything else, too much of a good thing can be bad. Treats should only be given in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet. When giving your ferret treats, always keep an eye on their weight to make sure they are not becoming overweight. Obesity is a serious health concern for ferrets and can lead to many problems including diabetes.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Protein | Fat | Flavor | Age | Item Form | Weight | |||||
1 | Oxbow Oxbow Animal Health|Essentials Ferret Food | ![]() | Formulated With High-Quality Animal Proteins for Optimal Ferret Health | 42% | 20% | Chicken | All | Pellets | 1.81 kg | |
2 | Marshall Premium Ferret Diet | ![]() | Developed with Veterinarians and Nutritionists for Optimal Ferret Health | 38% | 18% | Premium | Mature Adult | Dry | 1.81 kg | |
3 | N-Bone® N-Bone|Ferret Soft Treats Chicken Flavor | ![]() | Healthy Soft Treats for Ferrets | 20% | 8% | Chicken | Adult | Pellet | 3 oz | |
4 | Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 - Starch Free|WDFE905 | ![]() | The First Starch-Free Extruded Dry Diet for Ferrets, Promoting Natural Health | 62% | 18% | Chicken | All | Grain | 2.27 kg | |
5 | N-Bone Ferret Chew Sticks | ![]() | Tasty, Healthy, and Chewy | 24% | 4% | Salmon | All Ages | Sticks | 3.74 oz | |
6 | Wild Harvest Wild Harvest|Ferret Advanced Nutrition Diet | ![]() | Premium Balanced Nutrition Formulated Specifically for Ferrets | 34% | 14% | Chicken | Adult | Powder | 1.3 kg | |
7 | Higgins inTune® Ferret Food | ![]() | Complete and Balanced Grain-Free Diet for Ferrets | 40% | 20% | Chicken | All | Chunk | 1.81 kg | |
8 | ZuPreem ZuPreem|Premium Ferret Diet | ![]() | Balanced Nutrition and Digestibility for Active Ferrets | 40% | 20% | Chicken | All | Dry | 3.6 kg | |
9 | Marshall Premium Ferret Diet | ![]() | Complete Nutrition for Ferrets | unknown | unknown | Chicken | All Ages | Semi Moist | 4 lbs | |
10 | Sunseed Sunseed Vita Prima Ferret Food | ![]() | High-Protein Diet for Ferrets | unknown | unknown | Milk | All Ages | Pellets | 3 lbs |
Protein | 42% |
---|---|
Fat | 20% |
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | All |
Item Form | Pellets |
Weight | 1.81 kg |
Marshall Premium Ferret Diet is crafted to meet the dietary needs of ferrets at all life stages, offering a high protein content with essential amino acids. This diet is formulated using a low-heat process to retain vital nutrients, ensuring freshness and enhancing digestibility. The inclusion of increased poultry content aims to support ferret growth and overall health while addressing concerns about odor. The guaranteed analysis reveals a balanced nutrient profile, featuring 38% crude protein and 18% crude fat, essential for maintaining a ferret's active lifestyle and muscle mass.
This diet is made from high-quality ingredients, such as chicken by-products, chicken meal, and essential vitamins and minerals, without artificial preservatives. The formulation supports digestive health and desirable stool consistency. The feeding directions recommend offering the diet as the primary food, ensuring ferrets receive balanced nutrition daily. Developed by a team of experts, this diet aligns with the natural dietary needs of ferrets, promoting overall well-being.
Flavor | Premium |
---|---|
Age | Mature Adult |
Item Form | Dry |
Weight | 1.81 kg |
Protein | 20% |
---|---|
Fat | 8% |
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | Adult |
Item Form | Pellet |
Weight | 3 oz |
Protein | 62% |
---|---|
Fat | 18% |
Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 - Starch Free is a pioneering ferret food designed to closely resemble the natural diet of ferrets, providing them with a high-protein, meat-based nutrition devoid of starch. This unique formulation is rich in critical food elements, including probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, phytonutrients, nutraceuticals, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all of which contribute to the overall health and well-being of ferrets. Additionally, it is enriched with omega-3 and other essential fatty acids to support a healthy coat and skin.
Made in the USA with ingredients sourced from USDA and FDA-approved domestic suppliers, Wysong Ferret Epigen 90 ensures high-quality standards. It is the first significant innovation in extruded dry pet food in nearly 60 years, aimed at providing a diet that meets the genetic and nutritional needs of ferrets. To avoid digestive disturbances, it is recommended to gradually introduce this food over 15 days, mixing it with the current diet to allow for a smooth transition.
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | All |
Item Form | Grain |
Weight | 2.27 kg |
Give your ferret a delicious and nutritious treat with these salmon-flavored chew treats, made with real salmon and no added corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. Designed to satisfy natural chewing instincts, these long-lasting chews also help reduce plaque and tartar buildup for better dental health.
With added taurine for essential ferret nutrition, these low-salt, low-sugar treats provide a safe and satisfying snack your ferret will love. Perfect for treat time, training, or just a little extra indulgence, these chews are a healthier way to spoil your furbaby!
Flavor | Salmon |
---|---|
Age | All Ages |
Item Form | Sticks |
Weight | 3.74 oz |
Protein | 34% |
---|---|
Fat | 14% |
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | Adult |
Item Form | Powder |
Weight | 1.3 kg |
Higgins inTune® Ferret Food is formulated to provide a complete and balanced diet specifically for ferrets, featuring a grain-free and gluten-free composition. With 40% protein and 20% fat, this diet relies on high-quality protein sources like chicken meal, Alaska Pollock, and turkey meal to support muscle metabolism and overall health. The food is enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and coat, and includes essential vitamins and minerals for comprehensive nutritional support. Additionally, the absence of artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors ensures that your ferret receives a natural and wholesome diet.
The guaranteed analysis of Higgins inTune® Ferret Food highlights its commitment to nutritional excellence, with minimum crude protein and fat levels of 40% and 20%, respectively. The diet also contains beneficial lactic acid bacteria to support digestive health. Feeding guidelines suggest providing ¼ to ½ cup per day for adult ferrets, adjusted based on their specific needs and conditions. For kits and pregnant or lactating females, free-choice feeding is recommended. Always ensure fresh drinking water is available and maintain clean feeding dishes to promote your ferret's health and well-being.
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | All |
Item Form | Chunk |
Weight | 1.81 kg |
ZuPreem Premium Ferret Diet is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of ferrets with a high-energy lifestyle. This diet is made with real chicken, providing a highly digestible source of protein, and includes essential nutrients necessary for maintaining good health. The guaranteed analysis features a minimum of 40% crude protein and 20% crude fat, ensuring a diet that supports muscle maintenance and energy levels. Key ingredients such as chicken meal, chicken fat, and dried egg product offer a balanced nutritional profile, while the inclusion of taurine supports heart health.
Feeding directions recommend using this diet as the primary food source, with treats and other foods limited to 10% of the ferret's overall diet. Daily replenishment of fresh food and water is advised to ensure optimal nutrition and hydration. The formula also contains beneficial additives like probiotics for digestive health and yucca schidigera extract to reduce stool odor. This comprehensive diet aims to support the overall well-being of ferrets, enabling them to thrive in their active routines.
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | All |
Item Form | Dry |
Weight | 3.6 kg |
Give your ferret the balanced nutrition they need with this protein-rich, chicken-flavored formula, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for optimal health and vitality. Specially designed for easy digestion and nutrient absorption, this diet supports muscle maintenance, growth, and energy levels to keep your ferret active and thriving.
With an irresistible taste that ferrets love, this high-quality food comes in easy-to-store packaging to maintain freshness and convenience. Because when it comes to your ferret’s health, only the best nutrition will do.
Flavor | Chicken |
---|---|
Age | All Ages |
Item Form | Semi Moist |
Weight | 4 lbs |
Protein | unknown |
---|---|
Fat | unknown |
Support your ferret’s health, energy, and digestion with this high-protein blend, crafted with animal protein, flax, milk, and eggs for species-specific nutrition. Each kibble pellet is designed to promote dental health, while natural probiotics aid in digestion and overall wellness.
Fortified with essential vitamins and taurine, this sugar-free, preservative-free formula provides the balanced nutrients your ferret needs for a strong heart, healthy coat, and an active lifestyle. No artificial colors or flavors—just pure, wholesome ingredients for your furry friend.
Flavor | Milk |
---|---|
Age | All Ages |
Item Form | Pellets |
Weight | 3 lbs |
In addition to checking our buying guide for accuracy, Cheyenne took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about ferret foods.
Cheyenne says, "A diet of primarily raw meat, raw bones, other tissue, and digested vegetable matter is what a ferret requires in the wild. They prey on and consume entire creatures that include raw flesh, raw bones, other tissue, and digested vegetable waste."
"The causes of a loss of appetite are numerous, ranging from liver or kidney problems to poisoning, viral or bacterial infections, and direct damage to the gastrointestinal system," Cheyenne told us.
"More often than not, the underlying cause can be easily determined and treated. However, in some cases, a loss of appetite may be due to an underlying psychological problem (and yes, ferrets can develop psychological problems)."
No. 1: Oxbow |Oxbow Animal Health|Essentials Ferret Food
No. 2: Marshall|Premium Ferret Diet
No. 3: N-Bone®|N-Bone|Ferret Soft Treats Chicken Flavor
No. 4: Wysong |Ferret Epigen 90 - Starch Free|WDFE905
No. 5: N-Bone|Ferret Chew Sticks
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices