(decloak)
 
I've noticed some posts recently about ferrets nipping guests.
 
I've always had a problem with my Magill (brassy, assertive little sprite)
nipping guests.  She doesn't just walk up a bite.  She first gives a very
light test bite.  If she isn't acknowledged, the next nip is a little
harder.  If she still doesn't get a response, her tail fuzzes, she gives a
good HARD bite and runs for cover.  She doesn't draw blood, but she makes
her point.  When disciplined at any time during this routine she runs to
her cage, eats, and returns for round two.
 
I've found that if guests manipulate Magill first, she will not try to
assert herself.  I encourage people to annoy her when they first arrive --
examine her ears, mess with her wiskers, root through the hair on her
tail, hold her on her back -- any annoying but harmless behavior.  When
released, Magill is transformed into a pleasant little ferret.  Domination
struggle over, no more tests.
 
Of course, there are times when she is still compelled to nip, even after
someone has established their dominance.  What self-respecting ferret can
resist dashing up a loose pair of shorts for a quick nip on the butt?  The
friend was not amused.  (-:
 
BTW, I got Magill from a rescue when she was 7 months old.  She was
mistreated and underfed by her original owner.  She's a little nutty, but
she's also a very clever, determined, entertaining little beast, well worth
the extra effort required to deal with her little quirks.
 
Cheers,
Lynn
Mike (the only human granted Alpha status by Magill)
Guinness and Magill
[Posted in FML issue 1382]