I too had never really thought that ferrets could grieve themelves to death. Search for their missing buddy? Yes. Mope around for a couple of days? Absolutely. But to actually give up, stop eating and cross the bridge. I really didn't think that they would or could. Until I saw it for myself this summer. I wrote about the passing of Sammy and Bear in July. Sammy and Bear came home to us together. They were cagemates and best buddies. At almost five years young, Sammy had gotten sick and we were doing everything we could to save him. He was put into a smaller 'sick cage' rather than in the big cage with Bear and Princess. Bear was taken to see him and cuddle with him several times a day. But he knew that Sammy wasn't getting any better. He stopped eating, stopped playing, just wanted to be with Sammy. Three days later, he was gone. No amount of cuddling or treats or favorite toys or kisses from his momma could make him change his mind. I truly believe that Bear decided that he had come here with Sammy and he was going to leave with Sammy. They are buried together in our back yard. I still can't believe that they're both gone. Princess seems to be doing fine. She was moved into the other cage with Poncho, Bandit and Daisy. She's eating and playing, but she had only been with Bear and Sammy a short while. Sammy and Bear were truly bonded. Alex, I just wanted to let you know again how truly sorry I am about your losses. I understand the heartbreak you're going through. It'll take a while - I still cry when I think of Bear and Sammy - but it'll get better. They'll be together while they wait for you at the Bridge just as Bear and Sammy will wait together for me. Give Todd some extra hugs and kisses. And know that you gave Ping and Puma a loving home. Kelley Loving Princess, Daisy, Bandit and Poncho Missing Ben, Jerri, Hershey, Casper, Oscar, Felix, Justin, Shadow, Bailey, Bear and Sammy [Posted in FML 6100]