From:
Yvon358@aol.com
Date: 2003-05-28 21:19:05 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] RE: Digging and biting at cage bars
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <ea.395ddf7a.2c0681c9@aol.com>
In a message dated 5/27/03 9:32:23 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
JchProcess@Yahoo.com writes:
> Did you end up making a ferret room because of one of your ferrets digging
> and biting at the cage bars?
Jenn...
I really can't remember why I eventually ended up leaving the cage door open.
I probably just felt sorry for them. Always a sucker for the sad little
faces.
The room they're in is a 3rd bedroom. Computer equipment, sports equipment,
large desk, treadmill, toys (human) everywhere, and totally carpeted. I spent
days watching them explore to see what needed to be moved/removed (I was on
vacation at the time). They've been in there for about 3 years and I'm still
moving things.
I lined the perimeter of the room w/the heavy, clear, plastic stair runner.
It comes in rolls and has the non-slip nubs underneath. This way, when they
dig at the room's door to get out, they're only scratching plastic; not carpet.
Plus, my boy still insists the world is his litter... he goes next to the
litter every time.
I really have no idea why your ferret has recently developed this behavior.
The vet says everything is OK w/his health? Maybe he finally learned if he
persists, you'll let him out. Or, like Sukie suggested, an allergy to mold.
I do have one that is a fanatic when locked up, but she has always been this
way. I think she was abused. She hates to be held. A "hit-and-run" type
fighter w/the others. Seems to have "little ferret" complex. Generally, wants
to be alone. After her adrenal surgery, I locked her in the cage to recuperate
and she dug and bit at the door so much I had to call the vet. He said it
seemed she was more stressed by being locked up and so advised I let her back
w/the others. I had to keep a close eye to make sure they didn't hurt her or
she didn't hurt herself. I work full time so there are many hours of the day
they are alone. Unfortunately, it was a chance I had to take. The behavioral
questions are so tough.... if only they could talk.
Again, best of luck.
-Y-