Hi Folks, A number of members at a ferret group to which I belong have
noticed recently an outbreak of new vitatlity and aggressive behavior in
some of our ferrets who have recently undergone their summer shed.  My TT
has been a layed back, gentle little guy ever since I became his 17
months ago.  Then a couple of days ago I noticed a squeal coming from my
little female, Nada.  TT had her down and was biting her throat as if
going in for the 'kill.' Last night when I heard choking sounds coming
from the hammock after TT was caged with his brother Cinco, I rushed to
check and found TT had Cinco in another choke hold, biting hard on
Cinco's throat and interrupting Cinco's breathing efforts.  This little
guy has also taken to nipping me rather hard in play, which he never did
before.  Since others are noticing similar behavior in their ferrets too,
I tend to chalk this up to youthful exhuberance which might be connected
to the recent summer shed most furkids have already undergone.
 
I've recently begun taking TT out of the cage first and wearing him out
in rough play before releasing his siblings.  On Friday TT and Nada will
be seeing the vet for their annual exams and vaccinations.  I will
mention this to the vet also.  Now I'm wondering if anyone here has
noticed similar behavior in their furkids.
 
Thanks a bundle for any input you can give me.
 
Cordially,
Greta Hoisington
[Posted in FML issue 4141]