I am having trouble with one of my Furries, She is a one year old Gill, spayed about three months ago, she is fed on James WellbelovedKibble (Reckoned to be the Best in the U.K.) containing all essential vitamins and minerals, they occasionally have raw Hare, Rabbit, Pheasant, and oily Fish flesh, (filleted). For treats,In addition they have Malt Paste treats, (for Hairball digestion,) One has recently developed a persistent " Scratching/Over grooming) problem which has resulted in fur loss in patches, over her face, where her harness touches, (leather), elbows, and backs of her paws, I initially treated her for fleas and mites, with Beaphar Anti-Parasite Spot On for ferrets, with no success. A trip to the vet resulted in a Steroid injection, and suggestion of another dose of Beaphar Spot On. The scratching abated for a few days when it returned with a vengance, and additionally, Hacking and coughing/sneezing fits which went on for approx 15 mins resulting in clear mucous from the nostrils, and leaving her completely exhausted. A return to the vets resulted in a (longer lasting) Steroid injection and Skin/Fur samples being taken, (which were negative for Parasites etc) The vet has been looking up ferret problems, and has suggested a blood test for Adrenal Gland Disease, But this will have to wait until all Steroids are clear of her body, I yesterday gave her a bath in Colloquial Colloidal Oatmeal, (Home made from organically produced oatmeal), with some relief from the scratching and also their cotton blankets, bedding etc have been twice washed with White Vinegar, to remove any washing detergent Their living quarters and run has been thoroughly Disinfected with Ferret Friendly Disinfectant, They both have a "Treat" of half a teaspoon of Ferretone, two or three times per week. Sorry for the long E.Mail But I am Anxious should the Steroids deplete (as is necessary for the blood test) she will start to tear her skin. Her Sister living together with her, is a Picture of Health with Bright Eyes and a Thick Bushy Tail, but her sisters is almost devoid of hair. [Posted in FML 6719]