FAQ

Why feed raw?

Ferrets thrive on meat-based diets — they’re obligate carnivores, which means they need high protein and fat to stay healthy and zippy. Raw diets mimic what they’d eat in the wild, without fillers or mystery ingredients, and support healthy weight, shiny coats, and that signature ferret energy we all know (and sometimes fear).

Why freeze-dried instead of frozen raw?

Freeze-dried raw food gives you all the nutrition of fresh raw, minus the freezer mess and daily thawing. It’s shelf-stable, lightweight, and super easy to prepare. Just add warm water, mix, and watch your ferret come running.

Why is a high-meat diet important?

Ferrets rely on animal protein and fat for energy and proper body function — plants and carbs just don’t cut it. Our Dook Soup is meat-forward and free of unnecessary fillers to keep your ferret feeling their best.

Is feeding raw or freeze-dried more expensive?

It might seem so up front, but because there are no fillers, you actually feed less by weight than with many processed foods. Plus, good nutrition now can help save on vet bills later.

Can I mix Dook Soup with other foods?

Definitely! You can mix it with kibble, use it as a topper, or serve it on its own. Many ferret parents start by blending Dook Soup into their current food to help with the transition.

Help! My ferrets are picky and don’t want to try Dook Soup or treats.

Not to fret — ferrets are famously picky. Here are some tried-and-true tricks:

1. Mix into a soupie: Blend Dook Soup with their current food (especially if they eat kibble soaked in warm water). Slowly increase the Dook Soup portion over time.

2. Use a small spoon or your finger: Sometimes the personal touch makes all the difference.

3. Add a bit of salmon or coat oil: If they love oil, drizzle a few drops to tempt them.

4. Boop-snoot method: Put a little on their nose so they have to lick it off — often the first taste wins them over.

Is your food good for allergy-prone ferrets?

Yes! Our recipes avoid common fillers and allergens and are formulated with limited, high-quality ingredients. But if your ferret has specific allergies, it’s always wise to check with your vet first.

Do I need to add any supplements?

Nope! Dook Soup is designed as a complete and balanced diet, formulated in consultation with board-certified veterinary nutritionists and exotic vets. No extra powders or pills needed.

Can I use Dook Soup as my ferret’s main diet?

Yes! Many of our customers feed Dook Soup as the primary food. We recommend feeding it 2–3 times a day, with kibble available if needed (though many ferrets ignore the kibble once they discover Dook Soup).

Serving sizes vary: our big boy eats about 2 heaping tablespoons (dry) per meal, while our smaller girls eat 1–1.5 tablespoons. Ferrets don’t typically overeat, so adjust as needed to find their perfect portion.

How many servings are in a 16oz bag?

On average, each 16oz bag has about 56 tablespoons (3.5 cups). Your mileage may vary based on how big your ferret's appetite is!

How do I prepare Dook Soup?

Add warm (not boiling) water to Dook Soup at about a 3:1 water-to-powder ratio. Mix until you get a gravy-like consistency — thicker or thinner depending on your ferret’s preference.

Do I have to soak freeze-dried food?

We strongly recommend it. Ferrets naturally don’t drink much water, so soaking helps with hydration and makes it easier to digest. Plus, it releases all those meaty smells they can’t resist.

What temperature water should I use?

Warm water works best (think cozy bath water, not boiling). It enhances aroma and makes it more appealing to picky eaters.

Why does my ferret’s poop look different?

When switching to raw or freeze-dried, poops often become smaller, firmer, and less frequent. That’s normal and means they’re absorbing more nutrients and producing less waste. Win-win!

My ferret seems hungrier than before. Should I worry?

Dook Soup is pretty irresistible, so they might try to convince you they need more. Ferrets typically self-regulate well, but feel free to adjust portions. If in doubt, check with your vet.

My ferret isn’t drinking as much water. Normal?

Totally. Once they start eating rehydrated food, they get a lot of moisture from meals, so they naturally drink less. Just keep fresh water available at all times.

Can I feed Dook Soup dry?

We don’t recommend it. Feeding dry can contribute to dehydration. Rehydrating is always the best way to go to keep them healthy and happy.

How should I transition from kibble?

Take it slow. Start with about 25% Dook Soup and 75% of their usual food (soaked if possible). Gradually shift the balance over 7–10 days. Some ferrets might need a bit more time — patience and persistence are key.

How long does Dook Soup last?

Unopened, up to a year from the production date (check the “best by” on the bag). Once opened, use within three months for best freshness. Prepared soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Why does the food sometimes look different?

We use real, whole ingredients without fillers or artificial colors. So variations in color or texture from batch to batch are normal and nothing to worry about.

What are your quality control and food safety protocols?

Your ferret’s safety is our top priority. We source only human-grade chicken from trusted U.S. farms. All ingredients meet USDA and FDA standards and are free of pesticides, hormones, or antibiotics.

Our freeze-dried products are made in human-grade facilities and undergo a proprietary flash-heating step to eliminate pathogens like Salmonella and avian influenza. Every batch is tested to ensure safety and top-notch nutrition.

When will my order ship?

We make everything in small batches to ensure quality. Processing time is usually 4–6 business days and is listed on each product page. We often ship faster than that! If you have questions or your order is taking longer than expected, email us at hello@thepamperedferret.com.

I selected Priority Shipment, but my order hasn’t shipped yet.

Shipping speed refers to the transit time after your order is processed. Our processing time (usually 4–6 business days) is noted on each product page. Need it faster? Reach out to hello@thepamperedferret.com and we’ll do our best to help.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes! We ship worldwide. To protect your order, we require Route Package Protection on all international shipments.

My order was lost or delivered to the wrong address.

We know how stressful that can be. That’s why we recommend Route Package Protection. If you opted in, filing a claim is quick and easy. If you didn’t, please reach out to us and we’ll do everything we can to help.

What size are the stashing balls?

The full-size stashing balls are about 3" in diameter, and the small/mini ones are about 1.75" in diameter. Perfect for hiding, hoarding, and general ferret mischief.