Two topics:
 
FIRST: David Rosner asked about cages.  We bought a large 3' x 2' x 4' cage
for our four.  It was about $160 and I consider it overpriced although we
wanted something sufficiently devorative to stay in the living room.  For a
year or so I considerred getting a second one so I could "modify" the two
into one making several runs that were about 7' x 2'.  I finally decided
against it.  Basically they sleep most of the time they are in the present
one even though it has quite a bit a empty floor space to play in.  They
only play when they come out (twice a day for an hour each time).  I also
found that the more empty floor space they ahve the more poop you have to
clean up.  (I have food or water bowls in just about every corner!) Anyway,
my -opinion- is that its worth getting a reasonable sized cage so they are
not cramped in the evnt you have to skip an excercise period now and then.
However, I personally wouldn't go overboard with huge cages.  I think the 3'
x 2' x 4' (which has three levels and a hammock) is adequate for four
ferrets.
 
SECOND: The sudden weight loss I asked about on Friday continued.  Lester
dropped 6 ounces by Monday morning and we took him in a somewhat dehydrated
state to the vet.  Oddly enough he was still moderately lively and was
eating and drinking through Sunday afternoon.  To cut to chase - fur balls!
He was never keen on anal thermometers.  This time it triggered a reaction
and he deposited a 4" fur ball all over the thermometer, the vet and myself.
He's been X-rayed and blood checked just in case there was something else.
Bloodwork was good.  X-ray showed no signs of the blockage.  However, the
stomach and organs seemed to be pushed up against the chest cavity.  Current
suggestion is that it may be some kind of "fat pad".  He's on laxatone at
present, which he hates so that is tough going.  No weight gain yet but he's
eating and drinking.
 
Do any of you think I need to be concerned by the stomach and organs seeming
to be a bit displaced?
[Posted in FML issue 1469]