FERRET-SEARCH@LISTSERV.FERRETMAILINGLIST.ORG
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Thu, 22 Oct 1998 04:19:05 EDT |
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Bad Cage smells from Kathy:
>I am great with keeping up with it but it still smells. No matter what I
>wash it with it still smells. I took out all their toys and bedding and
>washed them in hot soapy bleach water. Still, bad smell. So I washed the
>ferrets too, still, bad smell...
Hi Kathy - I really don't think you should be washing the ferrets in hot
soapy bleach water everyday! They must be pretty white by now....but
seriously, I am wondering if your cage base is galvanized and perhaps old
with some black or rust areas. Or could it be wood? If it is galvanized,
try scrubbing with a stiff wire brush & comet. Also - you can refinish
the bottom by using contact paper or get an enamel spray (outside and well
ventilated and check label for toxicity).
Or maybe it is time to get a new cage. I have gradually changed over to
enamel bases or heavy plastic bases. Bedding should be changed every few
days and I go through tons. Also, try carpeting the base or using vinyl
tile. I prefer the carpet cut to fit (with jute backing) and just pull it
out and pitch when soiled. Also, although I sometimes use bleach, I prefer
Zephrin (Benzalkonium chloride) as a cold sterilizer. Amway sells it in a
concentration called Germicidal.
You might also be bathing your ferrets too often (I really don't think you
are using bleach on them :)). Mine are lucky if they get a bath once a
month! And their coat and skin is better for it. If odor persists, please
take the ferrets to a vet - could be something like ear mites or another
condition that might be adding to the ferrets natural smell which is
somewhat musky.
Cheers, Meg
[Posted in FML issue 2470]
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