I am trying to introduce a new ferret to my 1-1/2 yr old male (Marshall
Farms bred), Charles, who was a rescue from the Humane society, but was
and is very lovable and tame.  the new ferret, Camilla, is a Female,
approx 2-3 yrs old.
 
The owner is moving to Mexico, so cant take her.  She received the
Camilla from a friend and her son, and she is a little bit of a biter
(Think she was abused?), but only on the forearm and face (any ideas on
this also).
 
In preparation for the meeting, I washed of Charles Hammies, blankets,
tent, etc and gave him a bath, to reduce the scent, the female has a very
lite scent.  I put them together in the living room which is only ferret
accessible for evening playtime, other wise Charles is free roam in 2
rooms and part of a hallway.  We also have a cat, about one year old,
Dianna, who plays with both with no problem.
 
At the initial meeting, she was shy, and Charlie was very aggressive, in
trying to sniff her anyway.  Charles chased her until she started to
screech, and I put him away.
 
at the next meeting, she was in a cage and Charles was outside it, he
just smelled her, but she still kept backing up away from him.
 
at the third meeting, I duplicated the conditions, and this time she was
sniffing back, but keeping her face to his.  I took this for a good sign.
 
at the last meeting, it seemed to be a "wardance" one chasing the other
and reversing of roles at times.  But the female was now the most
aggressive.  It seemed to be going ok, Charles was being very friendly,
thinking it was playtime, but she was very aggressive this time.  they
were ok, a little hissing when one would get to close to the others rear
area ( they are both supposed to be fixed, I can see his scar but I dont
know where to look for hers), and some playful biting and sniping,
chasing, etc. then Camilla got Charles cornered and put the whammy on
his neck, did not bleed, but did break the skin.  I immediately put
Camilla in her cage, and check on Charles.
 
I am worried this is not working, or I am rushing it?  any advise would
be greatly appreciated.
 
Thanks
 
Terrance, and 3 Fuzzables
[Posted in FML issue 4037]