Is ferrets illegal in California?

Domesticated originally for vermin control, they now make extremely popular pets and are legal in all or parts of every state except California and Hawaii. Despite intensive lobbying to legalize ferrets in California, however, you cannot legally keep a ferret in California without a permit.

Can you go to jail for having a ferret in California?

Owning a ferret in California can get you charged with a misdemeanor, up to six months in jail, or $1,000 in fines.

What happens if I own a ferret in California?

Owning a pet ferret in California can result in monetary fines, criminal charges, and even jail time. The fines can be from $500 up to $10,000. If you are caught, ferret owners may also be charged to pay for transportation, handling, and storing every ferret they find in their home.

Why are ferrets not allowed in CA?

The primary reason pet ferrets are banned in California is “because they pose a threat to our native fish and wildlife, agriculture or public health and safety.” Other exotic animals are forbidden as pets for the same reason.

What states are ferrets illegal in?

There are two states where ferrets are completely illegal: California and Hawaii. That means they are legal in the remaining 48 states, but local laws (depending on city or county) can choose to follow their state guidelines or provide a stricter law.

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What are illegal pets in California?

How much is a permit for a ferret in California?

LegalizeFerrets.org proposed a legalization ballot measure this year that would require ferrets to be spayed or neutered prior to sale in stores and receive annual rabies vaccinations. Owners would pay a $100 one-time license fee.

Can you own a ferret in California 2021?

Domesticated originally for vermin control, they now make extremely popular pets and are legal in all or parts of every state except California and Hawaii. Despite intensive lobbying to legalize ferrets in California, however, you cannot legally keep a ferret in California without a permit.

Are hamsters illegal in California?

Hamsters are popular pets, but they're illegal in some parts of the world. This includes California, which has some of the world's strictest pet laws. Some hamster species, such as the Chinese hamster, are banned in California to protect the native plants and wildlife.

Are chinchillas legal in California?

Thankfully, domesticated races of chinchillas are legal as pets in the state of California. This means that you can purchase and own one without any issues.

Why are ferrets so stinky?

What causes that distinctive ferret smell in the first place? Ferrets, like other carnivorous (and some omnivorous) animals, have anal glands that secrete a scent particular to their species. “Their anal glands are very strong smelling scent and territory marking glands,” said Fiorella.

How much is a ferret?

Although the cost of the purchase of a ferret and its scheduled care will vary depending on the area, you can usually plan on spending anywhere from $75 to $250, with the average being around $100, for the ferret itself, depending on the pet store or breeder.

Can I take my ferret to the vet in California?

They can also carry canine distemper — and there's a vaccine for that, too. While it's legal for veterinarians to treat ferrets in California, many ferret owners are afraid to seek veterinary care for their little fugitives, which puts both people and pets at risk.

Are ferrets mean?

Like cats and dogs, ferrets can be made vicious by mishandling but are generally docile. The ferret's wild relatives do prey on unprotected young, old and injured animals.

Are sugar gliders legal in California?

Sugar gliders are illegal to own as pets in California. Unfortunately, people are enamored with these “pocket pets” and illegally acquire them. Regardless of their small size and cute appearance, sugar gliders do not make good pets.

Can I own a fox in California?

Pet foxes are legal in up to 15 states, but not in California. Rules vary departing on the breed, the most common being the fennec fox. While there are fox breeders in California, they cannot be sold legally within the state.

How do I get a ferret in California?

California Ferrets are illegal in California except by special permit issued by the Dept. of Fish and Game. From www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/species/nuis_exo/ferret/: “In California, domestic ferrets are legal to import, transport, or possess only by permit.

Can you have a pet duck in California?

Ducks are legal as pets in California, but you should confirm if your town or city has any restrictions. Even if allowed, ducks require special care and nutrition. When keeping ducks, you should note that they're social and prefer the outdoors. Also, pay attention to cleanliness and their needs.

Are wolf dogs legal in California?

The California Department of Health Services (CDHS) requires that if an animal contains any wolf, even one percent, it must be considered a wolf hybrid and handled as an exotic animal. The California Department of Fish and Game, however, only requires a permit for the animal if it is fifty percent or more wolf.

Are ferrets aggressive?

Ferrets aren't aggressive animals without any particular reason. Finding out the cause of your ferret's aggression is as important as knowing how to handle a ferret that acts aggressively. Remember, patience is the key that can turn an aggressive ferret into a cuddle bug.

How long have ferrets been illegal in California?

Under a policy adopted in 1986 by the Fish and Game Commission, neutered male ferrets were made illegal as pets in California, except for those which were already pets at that time.

Are hedgehogs legal in California?

There are at least 17 known species of hedgehogs. All species are restricted from possession as pets in California primarily because they can become pests where introduced into the wild where they don't naturally occur.

Do ferrets bite?

They love to play, explore, and sleep so they are a lot like a small puppy or kitten and therefore may also bite at times. Knowing more about the normal behavior of ferrets, including why they may bite, can help you stay safe and also avoid upsetting your ferret.

Are ferrets good pets?

Ferrets make excellent pets for people who have the time for them, and who bond well with animals. Ferrets are naturally quiet, friendly, inquisitive, intelligent, and companionable. At certain points in the day, they are also exceedingly active and capable of getting themselves into trouble unless they are supervised.