Ferrets were initially domesticated from the wild polecat over 2000 years ago and used for hunting rabbits and rats. Now they are increasingly being kept as house pets.
Ferrets sleep for up to 18 hours a day, typically showing periods of energetic activity, followed by a deep sleep. Seasonal weight loss is common during the summer months.
Ferrets are vey much still hunters, and while they may tolerate living with other carnivores (cats and dogs), they will likely assume that all other species are prey.