SIR – Recent press reports have highlighted the growing popularity of ferrets as pets throughout the UK.

Ferrets are intelligent and endearing animals, but PDSA would urge anyone to think carefully before taking on any pet.

All pets are a big responsibility and ownership should not be undertaken lightly. So take time to find out about animals before keeping them, to make sure you can provide what they will need throughout their lifetime. Under the Animal Welfare Act, owners have a duty of care to make sure their pets are healthy and happy.

Ferrets, for example, are active and need lots of space and stimulation to keep them occupied. They can live for up to ten years with an average lifetime cost of £2,500.

To help people choose the pet that is most likely to be suited to their lifestyle and circumstances, PDSA has a useful online tool at your-right-pet.org.uk.

This contains lots of useful information for prospective owners, written by PDSA vets. Further details on caring for ferrets and information about the welfare needs for all pets can be found at pdsa.org.uk.

Sean Wensley, senior veterinary surgeon, PDSA