When researching what I needed to know before getting ferrets, a big concern was diet. I knew I would not do the BARF thing, at least not little chickies and mousies. So on to find the best commercial food. Read an article in a ferret magazine comparing foods/ingredients. One always came out the winner in proper nutrition. At the end of the article I noticed it was written by the producer of that food. Hmmm. I've since re-read the article several times, and I do feed that food to my guys, along with 2 others mixed with. I've read that ferrets do not need nor can use the *friendly gut bacteria* that is listed on some labels of ferret food. This info from very knowledgeable folks on FML. In a new catalogue there is a ProBiotic Digestive Tract Conditioner designed to enhance a ferrets ability to efficiently absorb nutrients etc. etc. Have I not read the latest correct info about a ferrets little kissable tummy. Or is this a case of someone always willing to take my money. My vet wants our 1 year old Lab with Dysplasia/arthritis in both elbows on a BARF diet. OK, I can meet half way. The cow/turkey is already dead and conveniently ground up. Soup bones are found in the meat case, not moving. Serve with a commercial dog food I found that MUST be great. After all, it says *holistic* in great big letters right on the front of the bag. Vet said to pay attention to the AAFCO on the bag of any pet food. There is a 40# bag of lamb/rice at Costco for about $14. My 40# *holistic* is $33. Both have the AAFCO. Now what!!? Back to Ferret food. OK, I can boil a couple of already dead chicken legs, grind the meat, mix with soaked in broth kibble. I make a batch, freeze in cubes, thaw/warm as needed. They love it, not too unreasonable for me. No screaming. I put towels in the bath tub, they get to eat/play with the bones in there. Lot's easier clean up. In Touch, Ardith mailto:[log in to unmask] [Posted in FML issue 3604]