Message Number: FHL14943 | New FHL Archives Search
From: "dmcupenn"
Date: 2012-03-13 00:34:23 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] New ferret(s)
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com

Hello everyone.

I have been a member for about 1 month and I have greatly enjoy all the posts. I am a veterinarian in Philadelphia, PA although I do not see ferrets (another doc at my practice takes care of my ferret children). I have 2 male ferrets (Phineas and Ferb) and both are about 1 1/2 years old- they were adopted from a client.

Well, now I have 2 additional ferret children- 2 females about 16 weeks I guess. Again from a client who did not realize the amount of care involved. Everyone seems to get along well but the one female (maybe a bit younger than 16 weeks) likes to bite. She does not bite hard and more or less just lays her teeth on you (whatever body part she can get to) and she has only clamped down twice. I was wondering if anyone has any good techniques for stopping this behavior. I am afraid it might turn into actual biting with time.

All 4 of them will be getting about 4 hours of intense activity each day so I am hoping more activity will help to decrease her desire to bite.

Any suggestions are welcome.

Thanks
Dr. Dave

[Some ferrets communicate more with their mouths than others. Deaf ferrets are more prone to this behaviour. I have never discouraged this behaviour because it is a form of communication, although others may be less tolerant. I have several who grab gently with their teeth as a way of getting my attention, even as a request for a hug. However, you can use a scruff and resounding "NO", if it turns into a bite that breaks the skin. If she is deaf, of course the "NO" will not be heard but the intent will be communicated nevertheless. - Moderator (TD)].


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