Did anyone else notice that the posts on "both sides" of the issue of
forced feeding all boil down to the exact same points (so actually were
all on the same side):
 
1. Save the more aggressive measures for when they can't be avoided,
and otherwise assist feeding in less aggressive ways.
 
2. If it must be done do it slowly and gently with encouragement and
patience, without either large amounts or sudden "splushes" -- either
of which can lead to aspiration pneumonia, and leave time to cuddle,
breathe, etc.
 
3. When it is needed it is truly needed; just don't jump the gun, be
careful, and remember that there are intermediate approaches.
 
I like Linda's idea of referring to degrees of assisted feeding which
reminds people that usually there are many options on the continuum.
 
-- Sukie (not a vet)
Ferret Health List co-moderator
http://www.smartgroups.com/groups/ferrethealth
FHL Archives fan
http://ferrethealth.org/archive/
replacing
http://fhl.sonic-weasel.org
International Ferret Congress advisor
http://www.ferretcongress.org
[Posted in FML issue 5128]