Is it possible for a ferret to become lead poisoned?  We have an antique
desk that our Henry figured out how to climb up the back of.  He was
sleeping in a stationery drawer (not much room or ventilation) It was his
favorite sleeping place for a few weeks until we noticed a distinct change
in his personality when he would wake-up.  Best way to discribe it is
"disturbed" he was kind of shaky, unable to wake-up completely and a bit
mean.  The desk is from the 1920s imported from Great Britain from a since
destroyed monastery.  The finish does have a distinct smell.  We figure it
is possible that it could be lead tainted.  We have also heard of
woodworkers coming down with symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome from
working with Tongue Oil.  We don't know what the desk is finished with but
is it possible that Henry could have reacted adversely to a lead based
finish?  We have since fixed it so he cannot get into the desk.  But, he
still tries to get in bonking his head repeatedly.  What are symptoms of
lead poisoning?  What are the treatments, if any?  Risk of permanent damage
(he is a youngin' at 6 months)?  Not a chance?  Any body else let their
ferrets sleep in drawers of older furniture with no problemo?  I think his
behavior has improved since closing the desk.  But, I always feel like I am
imagining things.  (Maybe I should stop sleeping in the desk :-) CL
[Posted in FML issue 1244]