From:
kestrelinden@yahoo.com
Date: 2004-04-18 16:56:06 UTC
Subject: RE: re : peter and his wieght problem.
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <1574821.1082307366308.JavaMail.root@thallium.smartgroups.com>
Vivian,
I'm not a vet, but this is what I have been doing with my Paxie who's not been eating lately. She's supposed to be eating some a/d while recovering, but doesn't want it so I'm slowly increasing how much I add to her paste each day, which she will sometimes lick from a finger and will take from a syringe with her dad. Like Kim said, you probably know to change slowly. I've been making a mash as suggested on the list and Dr. Williams' site that could be used to change the ratios and get Peter used to the Totally Ferret taste.
For Peter, perhaps figure out a ratio to start with of Iams and Totally Ferret, maybe as much as 4:1 Iams:Totally Ferret. Put them in a bowl together and pour just enough hot water (I use my tea water heater to keep it under boiling) on top to cover the food. Let it sit for a few minutes, in which it will absorb the water and get bigger, then mash it all together with a spoon or what have you. For Pax we've then made it a bit more watery after the initial absorption to increase her fluid intake, but Peter might like some "Iams" mash from your fingers, or he might not. Try and keep it warm. If this works, over time reduce the ratio, slowly. See if eventually he'll eat his treat from your finger that is mostly Totally Ferret and he might just get used to the taste and consider it food.
Best of luck,
Maureen, Paxie, and NikkoBear