The ferret is the domesticated form of the European polecat. A mammal belonging to the same genus as the weasel, Mustela of the family Mustelidae. They usually weighing less than 5 pounds. Ferrets have a body-shape being long and slender. They typically have brown, black, white, or mixed fur. They are carnivorous animals biologically similar to cats and dogs. Ferrets spend 14–18 hours a day asleep and are most active around the hours of dawn and dusk. When awake they buzz with energy and will find great pleasure in exercise.