I was using pressed wood pellets (no cedar in mix) for my one ferret who
only used her box periodically.  It was recommended by a friend with over
10 ferrets because it worked well and was inexpensive.  I didn't find it to
absorb better than the pressed paper pellets.  Then I got a second ferret
(who was much more willing to use the litter box!).  Suddenly my first
ferret was waking up with horrible coughing and wheezy breaths.  I went
to the vet, tried cold and allergy medications, etc.  The problem couldn't
be solved!  It was horrible listening to my little baby having so much
trouble.  Finally I realized that when the wood pellets were actually used
(by my newest fuzzy) they would break down into a sawdust type of material
under the litter.  I took out all the litter and within a few days my
original baby was back to her healthy self!  My friend with the 10+ ferrets
said some of hers cough also when waking up (although she doesn't think its
caused by the litter).  I will never know if that is what caused all this
trouble, but I will never try it again!  We are now happily and safely
using Swheat Scoop.  A safe and scoopable litter.  The only drawback is
that a little is scattered by my baby - I can deal with that!
 
[RI]
[Posted in FML issue 3127]