QUESTION:
Is it harmful to put baby powder on ferrets to get rid of some of the odor they produce?

ANSWER:
A neutered/spayed ferret should only have minimal odor, a musky smell which is not pungent! If you are having a problem with a 'strong odor' you may need to change the ferret's habitat somewhat.

If they are caged then use bedding such as WASHABLE mats, hammocks, sleeping beds and blankets, keeping them washed at least once a week. You might try a little softener in your rinse cycle and you will find the ferrets smell like their bedding.

If you have them free roaming and have carpet in the house, then you have a problem as the odor will be absorbed into the carpets and no matter what you do it will not go away. Tile, linoleum or wood floors are much more serviceable for ferrets, since they can be cleaned and washed easily.

Another odor producer is the 'litter bin', make sure you use a recycled newspaper litter and scoop twice a day, washing the bin when necessary. Some foods cause the ferret to have very strong smelling poop and also make the ferret smelly!

In answer to the 'baby powder' question, I would think seriously about using it, although it might help for a short time, it's continues use could cause irritation and would definitely dry out the ferret's tender skin, possibly blocking the pores and causing difficulty for the skin to breathe.

Just as it is not wise to bathe ferrets frequently because of drying out the essential oils that keep the skin healthy and protected, the bay powder would have the same effect. Try applying the afore mentioned suggestions and let me know if it helps.

PS---If the ferrets have just started developing a strong odor and there is signs of hair loss, this may be indicative of 'adrenal disease', so a trip to the vet would be advised to determined if this is the cause.