Ferret Age
Ferret age is one thing to consider when getting ready to bring a ferret home. This may seem a bit odd to say, but when you adopt an older ferret you'll notice that he is a bit more at ease with himself and even seems a little "wiser" about his environment.
This is not to say that he lacks energy. Gosh no! He will have his energy intact, as well as his inquisitiveness turned on high. Adults are still amusing, playful and a delight to be around. And just so you can prepare yourself, should you decide to go the adult route to adoption, the full-grown ferret can sometimes get himself into quite a mess (should he wish to).
But, similar to humans, adult ferrets are often "set in their ways." You may be able to teach an old dog new tricks, but try correcting an adult ferret so he'll change his behavior. It can be done, but it's not for the meek or mild to do!
You may be adopting, moreover, an adult who has been abused or neglected in some way. In this case, you're not only trying to bond with a new pet, but you're now trying to help him overcome some personal problem as well. Then again, some ferrets are so resilient you would never know that they had any emotional problems in their past.
Every adult ferret is an individual. And as such, the individual ferret acts in his own manner. It may take you a while to get used to your new friend. Trust me, it may take him a little time to get used to you too!
Here are a few more facts that you should know before you adopt an older ferret. Most of these guys have had at least one caretaker, other than you. They also, in all probability, have been trained to use the litter box as well as taught that "nipping" is wrong.
Now, having said this, it doesn't mean they can be stopped if they're biting out of fear. Keep in mind that some of the older ferrets needing homes may not have been properly socialized from the start.
There's really only one way to tell if the one older ferret you see is right for you. Spend a little bit of time with him, at the shelter, before you make your final decision.