From:
Jen & Andre
Date: 2002-06-27 04:06:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Very nippy boy
I'm no expert, but I've had 5 ferrets in the 9 years I've
been keeping them.
I agree with nzweezul, quiet socialization and baby steps
sound like a good idea. There are a couple of things you
mentioned that sound as though the ferret may be overwhelmed,
or even fearful. I have seen nervous ferrets that scream like
banshees when other ferrets try to play with them. When a
ferret is breaking the skin on people and cats, it is trying
to make everyone keep his/her distance.
Here's what i would do:
Have only one person handle him until he is more secure in his
surroundings. Don't have him out with other ferrets until he
learns to trust you. Don't punish or yell, if he gets out of
control gently put him back in a cage (use gloves if you have
to) a small cage like a carrier is a good time-out spot.
Reward good behaviour with linatone (It might be helpful to
approach the cage with linatone in hand and give a drop
through the bars before even taking him out, this will have
him looking forward to interacting with you in no time). I'd
have him out in a small room so you can make the most of the
time together (rather than have him exploring under all kinds
of furniture). Have toys on string that he can tackle rather
than your hands.
Patience.
I hope it works out for you, good luck
Jen