Suzanne -
Install magnetic latches:  They require a sharp tug to open and don't need any
knobs, straps, tape, nails, barbed-wire, etc. that may ruin the esthetic of
your decor.  We have the same style of cabinets and these latches have kept
everyone out (caused a small rebellion, too).
For unseen areas, like the backs of cabinets, under furniture, inside heating
ducts, etc., staple or screw in some FINE mesh chicken wire.  This allows air
circulation and can be removed fairly easily for repair access.
 
Mason -
Ferrets have a very strong hierarchical dispostion: Pogo is only doing what is
natural and re-asserting his dominance over Slinky.  This same thing went on
for about four months between Minerva, the newcomer, and Luci,
"number-two-ferret." They were pretty much the same ages with the same age
difference as Pogo and Slinky.  Minerva, naturally, seemed pretty frazzled and
terrorised by her new sister; Luci seemed to regard Minerva as an Hors
d'Oeurve on the food chain.  The change came when Minerva finally had had
enough and bit back a few times.  Luci recognised that the (fuzzy) worm had
turned and quit being so rough.  Luci still ambushes Minerva and chases her
around, but now it is play.  Both recognise their places in the hierarchy and
both are happy.  You can't change instinct, but you can comfort Slinky when he
has had a go-around with Pogo and you should break up the worst altercations
(more than four or five minutes of paw-to-paw combat).  Don't punish Pogo,
though, or he'll feel even more threatened by this interloper in his home.
(In human terms, Pogo sees an UNINVITED stranger come into HIS home, eat HIS
food, play with HIS parent, and then this stranger WON'T LEAVE!  YOU would be
put out, too, if it happened to you!) Once Slinky is too big to toss around
easily and starts fighting back, Pogo will settle down and the two should
become inseparable companions.  Until then, let nature take its course, but
let Slinky know you are a refuge when things get too tough.  Also, don't worry
too much about bites on the scruff of the neck: They may be a bit sore, but
aren't serious.  Just watch for infection.
 
Enjoy the creation of your family,
Karl
[Posted in FML issue 1163]