You are correct in that kennel cough is due to one of a number of respiratory viruses which pave the way for later infection by Bordetella by "knocking out" the local immune reaction. While Bordetella can conceivably (but very rarely) infect other mammalian species, it is generally pretty well conserved to dogs, and poses little threat to ferrets. Ferrets are also not sensitive to the common viral infections that facilitate kennel cough, with the exception of one of the rarest, canine distemper. Long story short - nothing to worry about with the current precautions you are taking. With kindest regards, Bruce H. Williams, DVM, DACVP Join the Ferret Health List at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ferret-Health-list [Posted in FML issue 3435]