Hi folks!  I've been lurking for a few weeks to keep list length down, but
am reappearing for a quick post.
 
As some of you may remember, I have posted twice asking for help to
introduce Pogo, my new neutered male kit, with Slinky, my 19-month old
neutered male.  Well, in the past two days, Pogo has finally shown that he
can hold his own.  Both have been together for 10-15 minutes at a time over
the past few days, and Pogo actually appears to be winning the battles a
little.  However, there is one problem left.  Even though he's doing fine,
Pogo is still scared of Slinky (who is still the aggressor, although
somewhat more warily now).  Any advice on building his confidence, or will
that just come with time?  After they've been together, Pogo usually just
collapses and falls asleep in my arms.  When I put him back in his cage,
though, he starts playing again.
 
Also - for the vets online - Two days ago I noticed a lump right at the
sternum area of Slinky that appears to move around, and disappear when he
is stretched out.  I brought him to my vet yesterday, who said it feels
like part of the sternum to her.  I had also though this based on the way
it feels, but I've never felt it before (and it can be quite noticeable at
times).  It doesn't bother him, and there is no noticeable scabbing.  Any
ideas.
 
A couple of other quick things.  I recently designed and got a huge new
cage for my guys - with a lot of running room and height.  What a
difference for Pogo (and eventually both) - he can really have a great
time while being inside!  A must for any serious ferret owner (despite the
cost).
 
And finally a cute story - Slinky treaures his plastic balls with a bell
inside; they are his favorite possesion.  I gave a new one to Pogo inside
his cage (not taking one of Slinky's away, a new one).  The next morning,
when I took Pogo out, Slinky went right over to Pogo's cage.  Only the
second floor door, 2 1/2 feet up, was opened.  He climbed the shear face of
the cage, went in the door, right to the down ramp, picked up Pogo's ball,
b-lined back upstairs, to the door, jumped the 2 1/2 feet down, and took
the ball to his hiding place (major ferret on a mission!).
 
Sorry to be so long-winded.
 
Best - Mason, Slinky ("And don't try to give him any more of my toys"),
Pogo ("And what are these back legs for again?"), and Leila the cat ("Let
them get together again - its so much fun to watch!  Better than a catnip
mouse!").
[Posted in FML issue 1178]