Hi everyone,
 
Jeannie, ferret kits do nip.  This is natural.  But please don't tap her
on the nose to discipline her.  You are only teaching her that hands are
something to be afraid of or defend herself against.  I am sure others
will suggest scruffing and saying a firm, 'No' (this works) and various
other things which are also effective.
 
Here's what helped me.  First of all, pick the baby up when she is
sleeping soundly and just hold her.  You know how soundly those little
ones sleep.  Slowly wake her up with petting and stroking and when she
is awake, give her a small treat.  Hmmm-mmm - good things are connected
to those hands and that lap.  Secondly, if she likes Ferretone, randomly
approach her with a finger full of it and let her lick it off.  Another
lesson in the goodness of hands.  To this day, my ferrets come to sniff
and explore if I put my hand down and wiggle my fingers.  (Sometimes
there is Ferretone to be found!) And thirdly, most people say that the
majority of kits outgrow this nipping.  That's been my experience.
 
About ferret smells - keep their ears clean.  You would be surprised how
smelly a dirty ferret ear can be.
 
Best wishes to all the ferret kids and people,
Shirley
[Posted in FML issue 4517]