At our shelter, Especially Ferrets, we probably have to scruff 50-80 ferrets in any given day. Nail clipping, meds, baths for some(biters), combing out mats, teethbrushing, etc. We teach all of our clients how to properly scruff their ferret and most importantly PAY ATTENTION to this, we teach them to scruff their ferret frequently and don't do anything but scruff, give them a treat and give them some luvvies. Usually, the only time most ferrets get scruffed is when something they don't like is going to happen to them, like some of the above mentioned necessary activities. If you will spend the time just scruffing them and giving them some love and put them down, they won't panic or struggle when you do have to scruff them. When scruffing, do not just hang them midair as I have seen many people do. I know, it's cute when they yawn and just act like they are going to sleep, but actually it is a good way to damage your ferrets neck or spine, especially with the larger males. Try to support a little of their weight on you. You will get the feel of the right amount after awhile and become quite proficient at it. Also talk to them softly and never shake them while scruffing. Scruffing can make things easy and less time consuming if done in this manner and in the end, make your ferret happy to be scruffed and not mad or paranoid. COMING SOON! Ways to administer meds without FFBSKPPSOY pronounced Fub-skip-soy ( fussing, fighting, biting, scratching, kicking, peeing, pooping or spitting on you) from the experts, the girls who work in Especially Ferrets Sick Room Stay tuned and until next time, hugs to all the fuzzies around the world, Ferretguy [Posted in FML issue 3135]