Our vet gave us samples of these new swabs to try. We really liked the convenience. Just snap the end, let the fluid drain into the end, and start swabbing. I would have to agree that the price seems a little high. With 10 ferrets to maintain, I'll probably have to stick to the old "apply liquid to Q-tip" method. The product is very good, though, in my opinion, if you have the $$ or less ferrets. Matt and the Furkids Giles, Merlin, Wesley, Spike, Drusilla, Faith, Willow, Xander, Oz and Cordelia [Posted in FML issue 4227]