The term 'ferret cousin' refers to a group of animals that are closely related to ferrets. These animals include otters (5 letters), MINK (4 letters), weasels (6 letters), stoats (5 letters), and sables (5 letters). All of these animals belong to the Mustelidae family, which is a group of carnivorous mammals that are known for their long, slender bodies and short legs. They are also known for their sharp claws and teeth, which they use to hunt small prey.