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Ferrets are getting more popular as pets throughout the United States, so why are they illegal in California? What makes them so controversial that people aren’t allowed to have one in their homes? Are they dangerous, or is there something else behind that issue? There are a few reasons for California’s ferret ban. Let’s find out!
When Did Ferrets Become Illegal in California?
Ferrets have been illegal to own in California since 1933. Although permits to own a ferret have changed over the years, their legality in the state has remained the same. The entire timeline regarding ferret legalities started when laws regarding wild bird and animal importation said that ferrets weren’t allowed to be imported and transported to California unless a person had a permit from The Fish and Game Commission.
In the same year, a document titled “Rules and Regulations Governing the Importation of Wild Birds and Animals” prohibited the importation of ferrets due to decisions from the Fish and Game Commission alongside the Department of Food and Agriculture.
The 3 Reasons Ferrets Are Illegal in California
There are many reasons why ferrets are illegal to own in California, but most of them are based on information about the ferret from decades ago, and not everyone agrees with their accuracy.
1. Ferrets Are Wild and Aggressive Animals
The first reason refers to ferrets as wild animals. However, many ferret owners mention that ferrets have been mingling with humans for more than 2,500 years. Their ability to live in domestication as pets in many states and countries proves their tame nature. Ferrets don’t fear humans, just like cats and dogs don’t, which is another trait that separates them from wild animals.
As is true of many domesticated animals, ferrets can be aggressive when provoked. However, ferrets don’t bite or attack for no reason. If a ferret bites, it can be for several reasons, including being scared.
2. Ferrets Carry Rabies
Before we start talking about this topic, let’s talk about rabies. For an animal to catch rabies, it must come in contact with an infected animal. The infected animal spreads rabies through bites and scratches. That means the possibility of a ferret catching rabies depends on whether they leave the house or not (pending that there are no unvaccinated animals living in the house).
They don’t require daily walks like dogs, nor do they explore the neighborhood like some cats. But they require daily exercise, so you have to let them out of the cage twice a day inside your home. Ferrets can’t survive on their own outside for a long time, so catching rabies and returning home is rare. That is why this scenario is not impossible, but it is highly unlikely.
If a person fears that a ferret can catch rabies, there is a solution. There is an approved vaccine for ferrets against rabies, but it is not obligatory. The ferret owner must request the vaccine from a veterinarian.
3. Ferrets, If Released in the Wild, Will Affect Wildlife
Ferrets are mustelids, which means they are predators. The natural ferret diet consists of small animals like rodents, birds, and even reptiles. So, if a ferret escapes, there is a chance that they will hunt those animals and probably eat a few. But it won’t affect the wildlife in extreme measures.
If a pet ferret escapes, it most likely won’t survive in the wild. There is one estimation that a pet ferret can survive on its own for a couple of days, especially in California. Although ferrets are predators, California is filled with bigger predators that can see a ferret as a tasty snack. Wolves and feral cats are a few examples, so we can’t say that ferrets would become apex predators in California.
Another natural ferret enemy is Californian weather. California is a warm state, and ferrets can’t handle hot weather. The highest temperature for a ferret to function properly is 70°F. A ferret that escapes their home in the summer could have a heatstroke that can lead to death.
Another reason colony development is unlikely is that most pet ferrets are neutered or spayed. Every ferret from a ferret farm or a pet store is neutered or spayed. So, if a ferret somehow escapes the high temperatures, wild predators, traffic, and other dangerous situations, they still can’t set up a colony.
What Happens If You Have a Ferret in California?
Owning a pet ferret in California can result in monetary fines, criminal charges, and even jail time. The fines can range from $500 to $10,000. If caught, ferret owners may also be charged to pay for transportation, handling, and storage of every ferret they find in their home. Most cases end up without criminal prosecution, but the fines can add up and be costly.
It’s worth noting that the only way to get fined for owning a ferret is if someone reports it to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Final Thoughts
As we can see, owning a pet ferret in California was always an issue. Whether or not it is right, ferrets are not welcome animals in the state. Luckily, if you are a California resident, there are many other domesticated animals you can consider if you want to add a new member to your family.
See also:
- Blaze Ferret: Facts & Rarity (with Pictures)
- Do Ferrets Get Along With Hamsters? Vet-Approved Compatibility Guide
- Are Ferrets Hypoallergenic? Our Vet Answers & Explains
Featured Image Credit: Mitskevich Uladzimir, Shutterstock
