I noticed while playing with the rascals today that both of them have dry,
calloused spots on the pads of their back feet.  I am concerned about this,
and would like some opinions on what to do if anyone knows.  They have
corn-cob litter in the bottom of the cage, which is hard and kind of
scratchy.  Could this be causing calloused feet?  Also, they have the
Midwest ferret playpen with the 2 ramps that go up which are metal bars
across... you know what I mean.  Could this be the cause?  Maybe it's both.
I have been thinking about carpeting the ramps, but I don't know what kind
of an alternative to take to the corn-cob litter.  I like it because it's
inexpensive & absorbent.  The ferrets refuse to poop in the litter box,
they just use the corners of the cage.  So I keep the floor covered with
litter and just scoop very frequently.  Anyway, my concern is with their
feet.  Would it help to put a little Vaseline on them?  I shouldn't think
it would hurt them if they licked at it (which I know they'll do) because
the main ingredient in hairball goo is white petroleum jelly, right?  Well,
if someone has some advice I'd sure appreciate it!
 
Thanks & Happy Ferreting!
 
--Rachelle Tuvell & 2 chubby weezles
McKyle (almost 4 lbs now!)
Merlin (tipping the scales at nearly 5 lbs!!!) :)
[Posted in FML issue 2404]