Photo by Serena Koi
Why Are Ferrets Banned in Some Places?
It is believed that most domesticated ferrets are descended from the polecat in Western and Eastern Europe. Therefore, they are not native to many other countries. Canada has a native species—the black-footed ferret—but it’s not the kind that became a pet.
Since domesticated ferrets are imported into most countries, they can be seen as pests. Unfortunately, many people set them free, and in some areas, ferrets have become overpopulated. It is because of this that some areas have decided that banning ferrets is the best option.
Other places and cities feel that they are exotic pets that are potentially harmful and ferocious. This is a misunderstanding of ferret behavior. Yes, ferrets can bite, but so can cats and dogs. Many people have come together and are working hard to change these laws; they hope to educate people about ferrets.
Are Ferrets Exotics?
Although they are easy to get, ferrets are considered exotic pets. An animal is considered exotic if they are not native to the location—regardless of whether they were born and raised in captivity. However, the term is used loosely, as even some native species are considered exotic. The ferret has become a very popular pet for many people, but now countries, states and provinces feel that they should not be kept as pets.
Pet ferrets can be found all over the world, but it’s important to know whether or not you can legally keep them. This is an overview of some countries’ laws, but please check your local laws before picking up your fuzzy little friend.
United States
In the United States, each state is allowed to govern its own laws regarding ferret ownership. Regulations vary somewhat across states. These can range from no regulations to vaccine requirements to outright bans.
Keep in mind that just because some states don’t have regulations on ferrets, they probably still have regulations on cats, dogs and other pets.
Finally, New York City banned ferrets as pets, even though New York allows them.
Ferret Laws and Regulations by State
| No Regulation | Minor Regulations | Forbidden |
|---|---|---|
|
Alabama |
Colorado |
California |
|
Alaska |
Florida |
District of Columbia |
|
Arizona |
Georgia |
Hawaii |
|
Arkansas |
Idaho |
|
|
Connecticut |
Illinois |
|
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Delaware |
Indiana |
|
|
Louisiana |
Iowa |
|
|
Mississippi |
Kansas |
|
|
Missouri |
Kentucky |
|
|
Montana |
Maine |
|
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New Mexico |
Maryland |
|
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North Carolina |
Massachusetts |
|
|
North Dakota |
Michigan |
|
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Oregon |
Minnesota |
|
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Pennsylvania |
Nebraska |
|
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South Carolina |
Nevada. |
|
|
Tennessee |
New Hampshire |
|
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West Virginia |
New York (not including NYC, which banned them as pets) |
|
|
Ohio |
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Oklahoma |
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Rhode Island |
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South Dakota |
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Utah |
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Vermont |
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Virginia |
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Washington |
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Wisconsin |
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Wyoming |
Australia and New Zealand
The ferret is not native to Australia and New Zealand, so their regulations are strict. Locations that allow ferrets have strict licensing requirements.
New Zealand is a little different. It is now illegal to sell, buy or breed ferrets there. However, individuals who had ferrets before these laws were implemented in 2002 were allowed to keep them. In addition, a select group of people are given a special permit that allows them to keep pet ferrets for hunting rabbits.
| Forbidden | Minor Regulations |
|---|---|
|
Queensland |
Victoria |
|
Northern Territory |
New South Wales |
|
Western Australia |
Australian Capital Territory |
|
New Zealand |
In the whole world
It can be difficult to find where ferrets are allowed in other countries. From my current research, I was able to come up with this list of where ferrets are allowed:
- Canada
- Germany
- Hungary
- Japanese
- Peru
- Singapore
- United Kingdom
- Venezuela
Good places to get more information about ferrets in your area are your local government and bylaw offices or your local SPCA/animal rescue. These places should have the latest information or can point you in the right direction.
Want to Help Legalize Ferrets?
- Ferret Organizations and Shelters
Index of ferret clubs, shelters, and other organizations in the US and elsewhere. - Legalize Ferrets in California
Want to help legalize Ferrets in California? See information here.
View the original article to view embedded media.
Sources
- Nature Canada: Black-Footed Ferret
- Facts About Ferrets
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not intended to replace diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals showing signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
Comments
Cats on October 27, 2019:
I don’t see how they justify banning ferrets, but not cats which cause more harm to wildlife.
ferret on October 23, 2019:
ferret
Adrian on May 17, 2019:
I LOVE FERRETS
Ethel Smith from Kingston-Upon-Hull on October 15, 2018:
Interesting. Since I’m in the UK I didn’t realize that ferrets are banned in some areas.
