I've tried ferret proofing recliners.  I used some of those "mending"
straps (from WalMart's hardware dept.) that are 1" wide with 5/8" long
screws to strap the rockers to the chair frame so that the chair would
not rock.  When the screws kept working out, I drilled & replaced them
with 1/4" bolts & nuts with lock washers.  Then the wood of the rockers
and frame started splitting.  I worked at this for a good 6 months.
 
The physics & geometry of the chair design is simply not sufficiently
strong enough to endure the pressure on the points the straps attach.
(I'm a rocket scientist in my other life.  LOL)  My eventual solution
was to donate two of my most expensive pieces of furniture to my children's
households while they were still usable.
 
Debi Christy
Ferrets First Foster Home
[Posted in FML issue 3124]