Kim, What Max is going threw is Shelter Shock and it usually hit 1-2wks after they are given up by their humans. Hand (force) feedings are verry important if he won't eat on his own. Cuddling and extra attention are also needed. Please e-mail Kim Fox (animal communicator) at [log in to unmask] Kim should be able to help him and you. She helped me with a couple of my ferrets. Older ferret, 4yrs and older take it extreamly hard when they are no longer with their humans and sometimes feel it is better to curl up and die than be without them. I've seen this happen i my rescue a few times over the years ao please contact her and tell her that it is urgent. WEASLE QUEEN [Posted in FML issue 5065]