Dear Jean and Barbara -
 
        Sorry to hear you are having such problems with Cashew!  However, I
think you should stick with her, and just give her the patience she needs.
 
        Cage biting is something that ferrets will do when they want to get
out.  However, if you take them out when they cage bite, it only reinforces
the behavior.  Slinky used to do this when he was young, and I got him to
stop by telling him "No" with a light whap on his nose when he started.  I
agree it is heartbreaking to watch them do this, but training requires
being tough.  If they get really bad, spraying bitter apple on the cage
sides one time may help, although this probably isn't a great idea (you
don't want her disliking being in her cage).
 
        Regarding biting - the FAQ has good tips on this, and time
generally helps mellow a ferret out somewhat, but you have to be willing to
take the time and be firm with Cashew.  It will be worth it - you'll be
rewarded with years of affection and fun, but it takes some work.  Good
luck!
 
- Mason
[Posted in FML issue 1162]