From:
"tressiedook"
Date: 2011-02-07 23:40:12 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Re: Help needed !
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
Kudos for rescuing this pair!!
First thing I would strongly recommend is to make an appointment with a ferret knowledgeable veterinarian. The biting may be due to health issues (i.e., pain, etc.). They may have serious gum disease, broken teeth or a whole host of other health related problems that are affecting their ability to eat,as well as, their behaviour.
Ferrets don't automatically 'take' to new food even if its a better alternative to what they were fed before. That may be another problem you are dealing with. See if you can find out what they are used to eating and awful as it may be mix some of the old food they are accustomed to with the better quality new food, with the higher proportion of the mix being the old food.
And if they are frightened, which I suspect they probably are, provide them with a low stimuli, quiet environment. That is, cover their cage with a blanket, no poking or peeking from curious visitors. Lots of soft blankets to hide in. Make all your movements quiet, steady and calm when you clean their cage or replenish food and water. Speak softly and slowly to them. All that will reassure them that the scarey human (with the big heart and gentle hands) looking after them right now - isn't going to eat or beat them ; )
Socialization can come later, once they feel safe and secure.
However, I STRESS - get them to a vet as soon as you can for that all important health check!
Tressie
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