Hola!
 
"Rita" was also a diabetic.  When we found out, it was too late to save her.
She had developed other complications.  I am soooo happy that Clare has info
on time to be able to give Ben a wonderful life.
 
I never fed Rita regular Duck Soup because of the high amount of sugar.
Instead, the Dr. gave Rita cans of A/D special feline diet mush (I wish I
could remember the exact name, SORRY), that usually are used to make them
gain weight.  Rita seemed to love this stuff, and she was also a very picky
eater.
 
I tasted it (Sorry, but it is true.  If I was making her eat it, the least I
could do was to try it) and to tell you the truth it wasn't bad.  I fed her
every four hours.  (The way I managed it with a full time job: I fed her
before leaving for work 8:00 a.m.  I came home from work (1/2 hour there and
1/2 hour back) during lunch time to feed her again.  When my son got home
from school at 4:00 he would feed her.  By her next feeding time, I was home
and managed it from there) I don't recall however, the exact amout of sugar
in it.  Rita was on insulin, so I guess that controlled the sugar.
 
When we found out Rita was diabetic and started on her insulin, she turned
in to the sweetest ferret in this world.  She was calm, yet happy.  I never
had to fight her to inject her.  I swear she knew it was for her own good.
She had this "warm look" in her face as though letting me know those were
the last days she was enjoying.  I do hope you will never see that "look" in
Ben's face and hope your dr. can find an alternative treatment.
 
During Rita's sick period, our vet keep in constant contact with Dr.
Williams.  Diabetes is NOT common in ferrets so if you can get your vet to
speak to Dr. Williams and other drs it would be very helpful for Ben.
 
I wish Ben and Clare the best of luck.  Please, love him every day as if it
is the last.  They need the extra love and attention when they are feeling
low.
[Posted in FML issue 2033]