When it comes to clipping the nails everyone has a different technique and it seems like everyone thinks their way is the best. When I advise people on nail clipping I tell them to try several methods and tools. Find what you are most comfortable with. If you are comfortable with scruffing and using a human nail clipper use that method. If you are more comfortable with tone on the belly and a cat or dog nail clipper user that method. What ever method is more comfortable for you will most likely cause your ferret the least stress as well. If one of your ferrets, everyone has more than one, doesn't like one method use another for that ferret. Personally I use several methods depending on time available and the ferret I am clipping mostly I put tone on the back of my left hand between thumb and wrist and cradle the ferret and clip starting with the hind feet because they are usually most relaxed right when you start and the hind feet tend to require a more steady hand. Sometimes I scruff if dealing with a ferret that won't hold still or one that bites, but even then I usually cradle the ferret in my arm. I always use the cat style nail clipper (the one that looks like a parrot beak) I have never clipped a foot pad with these. I have tried the human nail clippers three times and accidentally clipped a foot pat with them once and came close a second time. I think they tend to block your view and there is a lot of extra cutting surface that you don't need to do the job. Lastly I like to spend a few minutes loving on the fuzzy after clipping so they relate that with the nail clipping and it is then a pleasurable experience. Ken Nyren, 3/1/2008 [Posted in FML 5841]