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The mink and ferret are similar-looking animals, but there are several significant differences between them. The biggest is that the ferret makes a great pet, while the mink is too wild for a domestic household. If it must be in captivity, it requires the attention of a zoo or another special habitat. Another fundamental difference between the two is that there are two mink species and only one domestic ferret species.
Visual Differences
At a Glance
- Average height (adult): 12–20 inches
- Average weight (adult): 4–5 pounds
- Lifespan: 9–11 years
- Exercise: 1+ hours a day
- Grooming needs: Moderate
- Family-friendly: No
- Other pet-friendly: No
- Trainability: Nocturnal and solitary
- Average height (adult): 18–24 inches
- Average weight (adult): 5–4.5 pounds
- Lifespan: 5–9 years
- Exercise: 2+ hours a day
- Grooming needs: Moderate
- Family-friendly: Yes
- Other pet-friendly: No
- Trainability: Intelligent, curious, and playful
Mink Overview
The mink is an often-farmed animal that is closely related to the weasel.
Breeds
There are two species of mink, the European and the American.
- The American mink (Neogale vison) is a semi-aquatic animal bred in captivity by fur farms. It’s a solitary animal that can be as much as twice the wild mink’s size due to selective breeding and nutrition to produce more fur. You can find mink in many colors, including white, black, blue, sapphire, and pearl.
- The European mink (Mustela lutreola) is about the same size as the American version and is also commonly bred in captivity for its fur. Besides location, European mink differ in that they are much less aggressive and adaptable. It’s also only available in a deep brown with occasional white markings.
Habitat
The mink is a semi-aquatic animal that can dive as deep as 12 feet underwater, so it requires a small pond to thrive. It follows the shoreline, where it investigates holes in search of prey. It is a strict carnivore and eats mice, frogs, salamanders, birds, and eggs. It’s a solitary animal except during mating season, and the young become independent after only 6 months.
Suitable For:
Due to the huge environment and special needs they require, you will not find many minks as domestic pets, and they are far better off in a zoo where they will receive professional care. Sadly, most minks are bred in captivity in fur farms and remain there for their entire lives. Their only purpose is to produce fur for the garment industry.
Ferret Overview
The domestic ferret (Mustela furo) is a popular pet in many parts of the world and looks like the mink but is quite different.
Personality / Character
Ferrets are friendly and intelligent creatures that are naturally curious. Ferrets don’t require a habitat with deep water and are content to explore the house. You can even train yours to use a litter box and perform simple tricks.
Health and Care
Ferrets have scent glands similar to those of skunks that they use to mark their territory, so your pet ferret will create an odor in your home. However, these are clean animals that only require occasional baths. There are several health problems associated with these pets, unfortunately.
Colds and Flu
Ferrets are susceptible to colds and the flu and can easily catch them from their human counterparts. It’s best to keep your distance if you feel unwell and let someone else care for them for a few days until you feel better. If you think that your ferret is coming down with something, the signs to look for include watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, weakness, and loose stools.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a condition common in ferrets over 3 years old. It causes a thinning of the heart walls, which reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood. Signs of cardiomyopathy include lethargy, weight loss, coughing, and increased respiratory rate.
Suitable For:
Ferrets make great family pets and are suitable for any home with enough space for them to run around. They are illegal to keep as pets in California and Hawaii, however, and may be unlawful in other places too, so you will need to check with your local authorities to see if they are allowed.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
When choosing between a mink and a ferret, the only decision that you can make is the ferret. The mink requires more care and a larger environment than most people can provide. A ferret is inexpensive and domesticated, making it more suitable for living in a human home. Their loving and curious nature will make them a great companion for many years.
See Also:
Featured Image Credit: Top – Aleksandra Saveljeva, Shutterstock | Bottom – ambquinn, Pixabay
