I would like advice on lighting conditions for my boys.  Last month they
decided winter was coming and changed their coats and weight appropriately
(well, the most energetic one always stays on the skinny side and I'm
wondering if his skinniness is also a side effect of lighting).  I have also
noticed some concern on the FML about links between lighting and disease.
Environmental points to consider:
 
-their very large cage fills the white-painted breakfast nook area in the
 kitchen, next to a large window that gets early morning light, the overhead
 light is generally turned on around noon and turned off in the evening
 
-the cage is multi-level with linoleum flooring, they generally sleep in the
 middle although sleeping areas are available on each level - so, much less
 light gets to them in the middle
 
-they generally are out several times a day in a lighted house, although due
 to work schedules their day often begins around 11am and ends between
 midnight and 2am.
 
-initially had unseasonably cool weather that turned into unseasonably hot
 and humid weather, so they went from coolness straight to air conditioning,
 and we're not spending much time outside in the backyard due to the heat,
 even in the evenings
 
-began mixing Totally Ferret with their Iams Kitten in the spring after
 their summer coat change, but quite a bit prior to their early winter change
 
Advice and thoughts appreciated.  I know some folks follow specific
protocols which would interest me greatly.  Maybe a lighting section could
be added to the already wonderful faqs?
 
Thanks-
Shelly
(SC Ellis-Blackwell)
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[Posted in FML issue 1999]