Which word describes both a domesticated weasel relative that many keep as pets and can precede "out" in the context of searching?

The word "ferret" is the correct answer because it refers to a domesticated member of the weasel family that is commonly kept as a pet. Ferrets are known for their playful behavior and are popular among pet owners. Moreover, in the context of searching, the phrase “ferret out” is commonly used, meaning to discover or uncover information that is hidden or hard to find. This duality in meaning makes "ferret" the right choice, as it not only identifies the animal but also fits perfectly into the phrase related to searching. Other options, while relevant in their contexts, do not serve both functions as effectively as "ferret."