From:
Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2001-12-28 09:03:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] Re: Biting ferret!
Hi, everyone,
One other comment to add to the excellent ones already posted:
Some people train ferrets not to nip or bite. I've never done that. I
train them not to bite *hard*. Ferrets seem to be able to learn that
laying their teeth on your skin isn't a bad thing, but that biting down
harder than a certain pressure is. They can learn limits.
Ferrets also seem to respond in kind. The rougher I play with them the
rougher they play with me. If I stop playing rough so do they. Nyssa
sometimes forgets her limits and all I have to do is stop wrestling with
her and pick her up and stroke her gently. She gets all gentle with me
in return.
Kerr Avon is my funniest ferret this way. If he forgets himself I say
"Ouch" in a loud, pained voice. He then gives me kisses to apologize
and minds his limits.
Just remember that all ferrets communicate with their mouths and teeth,
and this is very natural behavior for a kit.
All the best,
Caity and the terrific 10