For instance, 2 ferrets should have a cage that’s at least 42 in (110 cm) long, 26 in (66 cm) wide, and 26 in (66 cm) tall. Keep in mind that this is the minimum cage size and bigger is better. If your ferret won’t be able to spend 4 hours per day outside the cage (as is highly recommended), go for as big of a cage as possible.

If the bars are any wider, your ferret may be able to squeeze through them and escape.

Remember that even the sturdiest latch is useless if you don’t actually secure it in place! Make sure you latch the door every time you close it. Some people stick a binder clip over the door and frame wires to add an additional latching mechanism.

Many ferret cages have removable floor pans, which can make cleanup much easier.

If you have 2 or more ferrets, look for a cage with at least 4 levels. The elevated platforms should have solid flooring as well.

A den or home office might make a good spot, for instance.

The more fresh air ventilation the location gets, the better. Don’t stick the cage in a small room with the door closed.

Do not, for instance, keep the ferret cage in a basement or garage where the temperature might go above or below the recommended range. The ferret could become ill or even die.

If your ferret has been in the sun and seems lethargic or ill, it may be suffering from heat stroke. Call your vet right away.

Check pet retailers for latching food dishes designed specifically for ferrets.

Buy bottles that are designed for ferrets and that latch securely to the cage bars. Place the bottles in different spots on different levels—one near the food dish, for instance, and the other on a separate level. Plan to check the bottles regularly and refill them as needed.

You can also find ferret hammocks at pet stores and online, and many ferrets really enjoy these. However, not every ferret is a fan of hammocks. You might want to set up both a hammock and a bed to see which one your ferret prefers—or just keep them both set up. Give your ferret a hide or shelter so it can burrow when it feels anxious or frightened. Provide at least as many bedding spots as there are ferrets in the cage.

Ferrets can be territorial about their litter boxes, so keep it in the same spot and provide a pan for each ferret in the cage. If you have 2 ferrets, for instance, give each a litter pan in opposite corners. Plan to clean the litter pan daily.

Even if you buy sturdy plastic toys, check them regularly and replace them if they are damaged. It may be a good idea to replace toys from time to time anyway, in order to keep your ferret interested. Try using a shoebox with a ferret-sized hole for a cheap alternative to plastic tunnels. Stocking the cage with toys is not a replacement for spending time with your ferret. You should spend 2 hours, at minimum, of every day being actively engaged with your ferret.

Wash the food dish with mild soap and clean water, and scrub out the water bottles with a bottle brush. Scoop out any deposits in the litter, and change the litter if it’s smelly or getting low. Wipe down the flooring (on all levels) with mild disinfecting wipes. Also wipe up any spills or urine/feces outside the cage.

Place your ferret in the ferret-proof room you’ve set up, or put it in a carrier cage designed for ferrets. Remove everything from the cage, discard litter, food scraps, and other trash, and wash bowls, toys, etc. with mild soap and clean water. Wash down the cage floor and bars with a mild detergent, then use a pet-safe disinfectant spray or wipes. Wipe away any excess disinfectant. Clean any fabric items in your washing machine, using a mild detergent.

Empty out the cage and do a typical weekly cleaning for removable items. Disassemble the cage so you can get into every crevice. Scrub down every surface of the cage with a bleach-based cleanser, or mix your own solution of 1 part bleach to 32 parts water. Take the cage parts outside, if possible, and spray them down with a hose or, better yet, a power washer. If this isn’t possible, rinse them very thoroughly in your tub. Let the cage dry for 24 hours before reassembling it.