Here is a sample letter to send to manufacturers of treats or foods that contain potentially dangerous ingredients. In a separate post, I will be sending the contact info for some manufacturers and a list of some of the products _I_ am concerned about. Not all manufacturers and products are included, sometimes because I couldn't find contact info. Sections below marked with [ ] can be customized, and feel free to rewrite in your own words (varied letters are more effective than form letters). ---------- I am writing because of my concern that some of the products you manufacture for ferrets may be unhealthy, inappropriate and potentially dangerous. As I'm sure you are aware, ferrets are primary, obligate carnivores. They have no demonstrated need for carbohydrates (especially sugars) or fruits and vegetables. In fact, high levels of carbohydrates in both food and treats might be a contributing factor to the high rate of insulinomas seen in ferrets, and pieces dried fruit and vegetables are known to have caused blockage problems, sometimes fatal. I am particularly concerned about your treats [and foods] that contain pieces of dried fruits and vegetables, and treats that are primarily sugar, such as [list specific products here]. Many ferret owners are not aware of these issues when they buy products for their ferrets. They see a picture of a ferret on the label, and assume it is healthy and safe. Also disturbing is that some retailers display "small animal" products, designed for rabbits and rodents, in their ferret sections. I hope you will consider reformulating your ferret products to remove pieces of dried fruit and vegetables, and eliminate those treats that are primarily sugar-based. I know you want to make sure that your customers do not buy anything dangerous for their beloved pets. Linda Iroff International Ferret Congress http://www.ferretcongress.org [Posted in FML issue 4909]