There seem to be a lot old wives tales around about ferrets and babies.  My
future mother-in-law (FMIL) is convinced that if given the opportunity, a
ferret will maul a baby to death.  (She also buys into that one about cats
sleeping on babies faces.  Now that I think about it, my cat did sleep on my
face, but he ALWAYS left and airhole--but I digress).  We've been thinking
about getting a small toy baby and giving it to her when FMIL is around.
Then, when Chloe runs by, saying "For Pete's sake, Chloe, give that baby
back.  That's the third one you've stolen this week." We haven't gotten up
the guts to do it yet.
 
Actually, she's a pretty good sport and although she doesn't like Chloe,
lets her come over and visit my FFIL.  He has Parkinson's disease and
somewhat restricted movement.  He'd like a pet but couldn't handle a dog
now.  Chloe adores him (and vice versa) and will sit on his lap for an hour
at a time--which is pretty good for a ferret.  So we've held off on the baby
thing.
 
I think, like any animal or child, ferrets will get jealous if they're
suddenly getting less attention than their used to, as when a new baby comes
along.
 
The question made about poop being lethal probably refers to a type of
bacteria which can also be found in cats' fecal matter.  A vet can tell you
more, but my understanding is that it can cause problems for pregnant women
and babies.  It doesn't mean that you have to get rid of your pets, but it
does mean that you should be careful about cleanliness and may want to avoid
cleaning the litter box when pregnant.
 
I have a question for anyone out there who can answer it.  Chloe aka Monster
Child seems to come down with hiccups on a regular bases i.e. at least once
a day.  She isn't drooling or pawing at her mouth, she eats well, has normal
stools and lots of energy (for a seven year old).
 
Are hiccups a normal part of a ferrets life or are they indicative of
anything more serious?  I'd appreciate any help/advice that anyone out there
can give me.
 
Hope you're all well out there.
Judith
[Posted in FML issue 1636]