Hi,
Good question:
>Would temperatures of water just go by my judgment and also is there
>anything in ferret shampoos that I need to avoid buying.
 
As far as bathing your ferret -- one thing to keep in mind is that their
body temperature normally runs between 101-103 degrees, somewhat warmer than
humans.  Here we always run the water and check the temperature on our wrist
as you would check a baby's bath or formula-- to make sure it isn't too cool
or too hot.  It should feel moderately warm on your wrist, but not hot.
Cooler water will tend to startle the ferret- and hot will burn.  Also it
makes a difference in bathing as to whether you use the water directly out
of the faucet, or from a spray nozzle, or in the tub.  Try and see which
version your ferret favors.
 
As far as shampoos, ferret formulated or kitten shampoos will do well.  Use
just a little shampoo and rinse thoroughly.  Also realize the INFREQUENT
bathing is preferable to frequent bathing.  We recommend bathing about once
every three months or so -- as needed.  The more you bathe the ferret, the
more oils you strip from the hair and skin -- the result is the oil glands
work harder and the ferret begins to smell muskier -- so less frequent is
actually better.
 
I sure hope this helps.
 
Alicia
a shelter MOm
[Posted in FML issue 2188]