I think that no one responded perhaps because we're all scratching our
heads thinking "Hummm, that's a new one to me!"  At least it is something
I've not encountered in my 13 years of being owned by ferrets.  I react
2 ways to ferrets problems.  1) If they LOOK ill, ACT ill, or are in
general not acting like themselves (eating, playing, and potty habits, I
race like the wind for the Vet's.  2) If they are not doing any of the
above, but DO have either a wound, or (like your babe), an anomaly that
they are not bothered by....I keep an eye on the area.  If, over a couple
of weeks time, (or sooner) the site (Nail), looks like it is either not
getting better, or even looking worse (more bleeding, larger area), I
would take him in.  Not just for your babe, but for your peace of mind!
Bear in mind, if the capillary in the nail broke, and bled, it would be
red...as it heals and resolves, it will turn darker to brown/black.  It
will take a long time to grow out and heal, much like a human nail, only
a bit faster.
 
And no, my dear, you're not a bad mom.  A bad mom wouldn't a)worry, or b)
ask for help!  A bad mom wouldn't even notice an owie! :-)
 
I'm new to the FML, owned by 13 ferrets (got the 2 I thought we had
fostered out back) and can understand the frustration of having no one
respond.  Zorro was ill a couple of weeks ago, and man, did I get the
feedback!
 
Hope mine helps a bit, and keep everyone posted on how he's doing!  I
care!
 
Human hugs n ferret kisses, Michelle, Willie, n the gang of
13 {again :-) }
 
[A later P.S.]
You did say all ten back nails are impacted?  More head scratching.
With humans, that could point out a bleeding problem, (not enough
clotting factors in his blood), or even something a bit more serious.
IF I were in your shoes, I would give my Vet a call, and tell him/her
exactly what you are seeing, how long he's had this, and get a
professional opinion.....soon.  Next time I'll read the letters TWICE,
and make sure I'm not so sleep deprived before firing off a letter
 
Again, Michelle
[Posted in FML issue 4196]