Palatability and digestive tolerance of a new high protein/low carbohydrate commercial dry diet in adult ferrets

The ferret (Mustela putorius furo) is an obligate carnivore whose dietary preference is determined at an early age. As a neophobic specie, it is very difficult to change an adult ferret's diet. The aim of this study was to assess the palatability and the digestive tolerance of a new commercial low carbohydrates/protein rich dry diet formulated for kitten in two populations: reproductive ferrets belonging to a farm and in neutered pet owner's ferrets. The new kibbles were progressively added following a transition phase then the palatability and digestive tolerance were monitored. Palatability was very satisfying. Indeed, 26.31% and 38% of farm and pet owner ferrets respectively consumed immediately the new diet. Hundred percent of farm ferrets consumed it at the end of the dietary transition and 80% of pet owner ferrets at the end of the study. Digestive tolerance was good as some stool changes were observed in the transition period but faeces rapidly returned to normal for most animals. Further, a notable weight gain was observed in farm ferrets, which is a significant factor in ensuring good breeding performance. This new dry diet seems to constitute a balanced nutritional alternative, very palatable and well tolerated from a digestive standpoint.