Hello all, I have been reading the FML for almost three months now. I would like to make some comments, offer some suggestions, and ask some questions. COMMENTS: [1] I have been owned by ferrets since 1986 and can't imagine being without them. I have had Silver Mitts and a Sable. I would love to have more. But, alas, I am aware of what I can handle financially should major expenses arise. I envy some of you because you have such amazing experiences with your fuzzies. I guess mine are laid back. My first one was all ferret, nipping my toes, war-dancing, hiding everything he found or "stole", and all the fun stuff - and was a great little guy - NEVER missed the litter box once he commanded where it should be placed. But my current ferrets don't play a lot. They like their tunnels, and inspect new boxes and paper bags. But they aren't interested in new games or being dragged around on blankets or many other games I've tried. They don't like foamy fries, yogies, cheweasels, or any other treats -- Just their nutrical, ferretone, and laxative. They do like being loved and give plenty of kisses. They get lots of playtime, love, their vaccinations, good food, fresh water, toys, sleeping places, etc. They're active. They just lose interest very quickly. Any ideas? [2] The "bickering", negativity and even hostility I read in some messages is very discouraging to newcomers. I have learned a lot since reading the postings and enjoy the knowledge and the stories, funny and sad. I have also used the great links provided. BUT some subjects seemed to drag on way too long. I guess, with over 2000 readers, there are many opinions and they all deserve equal time. It must be a very difficult role to be the moderator. (Hats off to you BIG.) The point is EVERYONE has an OPINION. It would be nice if they were tactfully expressed as simply opinions without downing others or jumping down their throats. SUGGESTIONS: [1] Someone mentioned how the syringes for feeding or administering meds can "clog causing them to spray too much at once" causing choking. If you rinse it thoroughly after use, then pull the plunger in and out a couple times, and leave it drawn back with some air in it, it will be easier to use the next time by expressing the air first before re-using it. This has always worked for me. [2] Someone asked about cage liners. I have researched some websites and found them to be a bit costly. I did purchase some ramp covers but they are difficult to attach. I also had trouble finding the cage covers in the right shape for my cage. What I decided to try, which works well, was to buy some cotton baby diapers and sew them in the shape I needed. They are soft, washable, and conform nicely. A simple snap attachment tool bought in any fabric department can be used for inserting the eyes/rivets for attaching them to the cage. QUESTIONS: [1] What are Waardenburg's markings? [2] What is a blaze and are they always deaf? How do you tell if a ferret is deaf and not just ignoring you? [3] Is it possible to take a ferret's blood sugar using a human glucometer since theirs run similar to ours? I have one where you can adjust the "stick" to light or deep. I'm sure they wouldn't like it, but it wouldn't be frequent, and I am knowledgeable enough to know the bleeding would need to be controlled. I personally think it may be better than the way the vets do it. ( Please answer kindly - it's just a question.) [4] Someone asked a while back how the Sandee thing got started. I don't believe I ever saw a response. Care to enlighhten me? Hats off to Sandee's human for keeping it all together. Sorry about the inability to continue. Thanks all. CEM Cathy Mallette [Posted in FML issue 4303]