Bless you for caring about these helpless babies!  The problem you are
having with your new kit's refusal to eat from the food bowl may be the
result of a change in the type of food you are giving the little critter.
It is usually necessary to change a fert's diet slowly over the period of
a week or so.  This also helps to prevent digestive upsets.  Call the pet
store where you baby was purchased and ask them what type of food they
have their ferrets on.  Chances are that it's different from what you're
feeding you 'kids' at home.  If you purchase a package of the pet store's
choice (a sample pkg will be less expensive), and add your selection to
this gradually, you may find your ferret more eager to eat.  Each day
gradually increase the amount of the new food while decreasing the amount
of the old until your baby is eating your choice only.  It should take a
week or so to accomplish this.  Sometimes adding a small amount of warm
distilled water to the kibble will soften your offering enough so your
kit can chew it properly.  When adding the water, always test the food
with your finger to make sure it's not too hot before giving it to your
baby.  Discard any leftovers in your baby's food bowl to prevent spoilage
from setting at room temperature.
 
Something I've noticed with both my kits who were purchased from pet
stores (one from a Petco) is that they don't come litter trained.  You
should be able to accomplish this within two or three weeks of offering
your ferret a treat with much praise when you see it using the litter
pan.  These little ones are smart and it will surprise you when you find
how quickly they learn.  I hope this helps you.
 
Cordially,  Greta Hoisington
[Posted in FML issue 4333]