>Yesterday there was a question on tips and methods for brushing ferrets
>teeth.  Please post answers to the fml too!  I know I need to start doing
>it for my ferrets and it would really help to have input from those who
>know how.
 
I use a kiddie toothbrush since two of mine like to bite.  It keeps my
fingers out and does a good job of getting all the teeth.  What I have
found to work best is the Maxi Guard gel.  It's a blue gel that comes in a
bottle.  You get this from your vet.  This stuff really keeps the tartar
build up down.  The vet and the tech is monitoring my ferrets since they
have few examples of this gel being used in ferrets due to many owners not
brushing the ferrets teeth.  Both are very pleased with the results.  All
of mine either like it, or it doesn't bother them.  I started out using
the cat malt paste.  They liked the flavor, but it didn't keep the tartar
buildup down.  I did try the Marshall toothpaste gel.  First of all, NONE
of them liked it, and I actually lost everything in toothbrush training
with one.  I take it as at least eight ferrets don't like mint.  And it
didn't work well.
 
What I do is I scruff with one hand, toothbrush in other hand, and brush
away.  I'm still trying to train my Utah ferrets to let me do it for
longer, but I'm not too worried since the Maxi gel is enzymatic.  Just do
it slowly, getting them used to the brushing.  For some of them, they do
put their paws in the way, I just put the brush comming from the back of
their head.  Makes it harder for them to push it away.
 
Amy and the boys
God Bless America
[Posted in FML issue 3654]