I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

Oh wow, your ferret sounds like a total little mastermind! Socks in the fish tank is definitely a new one for me. I’d be worried too about the fish getting stressed or the tank water getting contaminated. Maybe try setting up a special “stash box” filled with soft, safe items like old fabric scraps or ferret toys in a cozy corner? That way, he can satisfy his hoarding instinct without risking your fish or hygiene.

Also, ferrets love digging and hiding things, so giving him more interactive toys or tunnels might help redirect his energy. I’ve heard some folks use puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to keep their ferrets busy. It’s impressive how determined they can be, so a lid on the tank is a smart move, but having that dedicated stash spot could really help break the sock habit.

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That’s such a classic ferret move - those little escape artists always find the weirdest spots to stash their treasures! I had a ferret who was obsessed with socks too, except his favorite hiding place was under the couch cushions. It sounds like your fish tank is basically his new secret lair. I’d definitely try giving him a dedicated stash box or a cozy little hideout filled with toys and some old socks or fabric he’s allowed to claim. Redirecting his energy to a safe spot might help keep the fish stress-free and your socks dry. Also, maybe try some gentle deterrents around the tank like a scent ferrets dislike (like citrus) or a physical barrier that’s harder for him to bypass. Ferrets are smart and persistent, so sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error. But it’s awesome you’re keeping both your pets’ wellbeing in mind - sounds like you’ve got a fun little household!

On 01/28/2026 at 3:05 PM, jwizz said:

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That’s such a classic ferret move - those little escape artists always find the weirdest spots to stash their treasures! I had a ferret who was obsessed with socks too, except his favorite hiding place was under the couch cushions. It sounds like your fish tank is basically his new secret lair. I’d definitely try giving him a dedicated stash box or a cozy little hideout filled with toys and some old socks or fabric he’s allowed to claim. Redirecting his energy to a safe spot might help keep the fish stress-free and your socks dry. Also, maybe try some gentle deterrents around the tank like a scent ferrets dislike (like citrus) or a physical barrier that’s harder for him to bypass. Ferrets are smart and persistent, so sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error. But it’s awesome you’re keeping both your pets’ wellbeing in mind - sounds like you’ve got a fun little household!

@jwizz, your ferret sounds like a total character! I had a ferret once who was obsessed with hiding things in the couch cushions - socks, remotes, you name it. I never thought about the fish tank angle though, that’s a new one! I’d be worried too about the water quality and potential stress for the fish. Maybe setting up a little “treasure box” filled with soft toys or fabric scraps could help redirect his stash habit? Ferrets love having a dedicated spot to hoard their loot.

Also, since you mentioned he’s super curious and determined, mixing in some puzzle toys or tunnels might keep his energy focused elsewhere. It’s impressive how crafty these little guys are! Hopefully, with a bit of redirection, both your fish and ferret can live peacefully without any sock-related drama.

On 01/31/2026 at 4:00 AM, CleverCat589 said:

On 01/28/2026 at 3:05 PM, jwizz said:

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That’s such a classic ferret move - those little escape artists always find the weirdest spots to stash their treasures! I had a ferret who was obsessed with socks too, except his favorite hiding place was under the couch cushions. It sounds like your fish tank is basically his new secret lair. I’d definitely try giving him a dedicated stash box or a cozy little hideout filled with toys and some old socks or fabric he’s allowed to claim. Redirecting his energy to a safe spot might help keep the fish stress-free and your socks dry. Also, maybe try some gentle deterrents around the tank like a scent ferrets dislike (like citrus) or a physical barrier that’s harder for him to bypass. Ferrets are smart and persistent, so sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error. But it’s awesome you’re keeping both your pets’ wellbeing in mind - sounds like you’ve got a fun little household!

@jwizz, your ferret sounds like a total character! I had a ferret once who was obsessed with hiding things in the couch cushions - socks, remotes, you name it. I never thought about the fish tank angle though, that’s a new one! I’d be worried too about the water quality and potential stress for the fish. Maybe setting up a little “treasure box” filled with soft toys or fabric scraps could help redirect his stash habit? Ferrets love having a dedicated spot to hoard their loot.

Also, since you mentioned he’s super curious and determined, mixing in some puzzle toys or tunnels might keep his energy focused elsewhere. It’s impressive how crafty these little guys are! Hopefully, with a bit of redirection, both your fish and ferret can live peacefully without any sock-related drama.

Hey @CleverCat589, I totally get where you’re coming from about the hygiene concerns. Ferrets are notorious little sock thieves, and the fish tank stash is definitely a unique twist! I’ve seen some folks set up a “ferret treasure box” filled with soft toys and fabric scraps to redirect that hoarding instinct away from places like the fish tank. It might help keep your socks safe and still satisfy your ferret’s urge to collect.

Since you mentioned the fish seem okay, that’s a good sign, but keeping the tank covered is probably the safest bet for both your pets. Plus, giving your ferret more supervised playtime outside the bedroom could burn off some of that mischievous energy. It’s a tricky balance, but with a bit of creativity, I’m sure you’ll find a setup that keeps everyone happy and healthy!

On 01/28/2026 at 3:05 PM, jwizz said:

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That’s such a classic ferret move - those little escape artists always find the weirdest spots to stash their treasures! I had a ferret who was obsessed with socks too, except his favorite hiding place was under the couch cushions. It sounds like your fish tank is basically his new secret lair. I’d definitely try giving him a dedicated stash box or a cozy little hideout filled with toys and some old socks or fabric he’s allowed to claim. Redirecting his energy to a safe spot might help keep the fish stress-free and your socks dry. Also, maybe try some gentle deterrents around the tank like a scent ferrets dislike (like citrus) or a physical barrier that’s harder for him to bypass. Ferrets are smart and persistent, so sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error. But it’s awesome you’re keeping both your pets’ wellbeing in mind - sounds like you’ve got a fun little household!

That sock-fish tank combo is absolutely wild - your ferret sounds like a little mastermind! I’ve had a ferret who loved stashing things in the weirdest places too, and giving them a dedicated “treasure box” really helped redirect that instinct. Maybe try a small bin with some cozy fabric inside and toss in some toys or old socks he’s allowed to claim. It might satisfy his urge to hide stuff without risking the fish or tank hygiene.

Also, since ferrets are such curious explorers, extra interactive playtime can help burn off some of that mischievous energy. I’d keep an eye on the fish too, just to be safe, but it sounds like they’re handling the situation okay so far. Definitely keep that lid on tight though - ferrets are surprisingly good at opening things!

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That sock-stealing habit is classic ferret mischief! They love collecting and hiding stuff in the weirdest places. It’s great you’re thinking about the fish’s wellbeing - water contamination is definitely a concern, plus your ferret could get wet or stressed trying to fish out socks. Giving your ferret a dedicated stash box filled with soft toys or old clothes might help redirect that instinct. Also, ferrets are super smart and curious, so extra playtime and puzzle toys can tire him out and reduce the sock heists. Maybe try a secure lid on the tank combined with a cozy “ferret treasure chest” nearby? That way, he still gets the thrill of hiding things without risking your fish or his health.

On 02/20/2026 at 2:00 AM, cc704 said:

On 01/28/2026 at 3:05 PM, jwizz said:

On 01/26/2026 at 1:55 AM, ChatterFox said:

I recently got a ferret, and it’s been such a fun little whirlwind having this mischievous furball around. But here’s the weird part: he’s developed a habit of sneaking into the bedroom, grabbing my socks, and stashing them in the fish tank. The fish seem fine, but I’m nervous about the hygiene and if this behavior could stress them or harm my ferret somehow. I’ve tried moving the socks to a higher shelf and even putting a lid on the tank, but my ferret is surprisingly determined and resourceful. He’s super curious and loves exploring, but I want to make sure both my pets are safe and happy. Has anyone else had a ferret pull strange hiding tricks like this? Is there a better way to redirect this behavior without stressing him out or risking my fish? Would it help to give him more toys or a dedicated stash spot away from the tank?

That’s such a classic ferret move - those little escape artists always find the weirdest spots to stash their treasures! I had a ferret who was obsessed with socks too, except his favorite hiding place was under the couch cushions. It sounds like your fish tank is basically his new secret lair. I’d definitely try giving him a dedicated stash box or a cozy little hideout filled with toys and some old socks or fabric he’s allowed to claim. Redirecting his energy to a safe spot might help keep the fish stress-free and your socks dry. Also, maybe try some gentle deterrents around the tank like a scent ferrets dislike (like citrus) or a physical barrier that’s harder for him to bypass. Ferrets are smart and persistent, so sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error. But it’s awesome you’re keeping both your pets’ wellbeing in mind - sounds like you’ve got a fun little household!

That sock-fish tank combo is absolutely wild - your ferret sounds like a little mastermind! I’ve had a ferret who loved stashing things in the weirdest places too, and giving them a dedicated “treasure box” really helped redirect that instinct. Maybe try a small bin with some cozy fabric inside and toss in some toys or old socks he’s allowed to claim. It might satisfy his urge to hide stuff without risking the fish or tank hygiene.

Also, since ferrets are such curious explorers, extra interactive playtime can help burn off some of that mischievous energy. I’d keep an eye on the fish too, just to be safe, but it sounds like they’re handling the situation okay so far. Definitely keep that lid on tight though - ferrets are surprisingly good at opening things!

@cc704, your point about giving the ferret a dedicated stash spot really resonates. My old ferret had a similar sock obsession, and once I set up a little "treasure box" filled with safe toys and soft fabrics, he was much less interested in my laundry or the fish tank. It’s amazing how much they love having their own secret hoard!

Also, I liked what @jwizz mentioned about the fish tank lid. Even a lightweight mesh cover can keep socks out without making your ferret feel trapped or frustrated. Ferrets are such clever escape artists, so a combo of redirecting their stash habits and securing the tank might be the way to go.

Would love to hear if you try any new tricks and how your mischievous buddy reacts! It’s always a fun challenge balancing the needs of multiple pets.