One popped stitch in the skin 11 days post surgery is generally not of any significance. He should have a good seal there several days after surgery anyhow - it likely will quickly scab and heal. Signs of a problem would be fluid leaking from the wound, the appearance of fat poking through the hole, excessive bloody discharge, etc. If you don't see any of that at this point, you can breathe easy. The ulcers are probably a bit more troublesome, and they are not uncommon after surgery. One refused meal is not the end of the world. For some advice on how to treat ulcers, you may want to check the archives here, as well at my site at http://www.afip.org/ferrets - you have a road ahead of good nursing care, but I'm sure you're up to it. No need to panic just yet. With kindest regards, Bruce Williams, DVM [Posted in FML issue 3494]