To Mike Janke concerning heartworm preventative - I believe that Interceptor is a form of ivermectin, which is the monthly preventative in use all around the states. While extensively tested in dogs, I know of no testing in ferrets. After reading your post - I searched my database, and found five instances in which ivermectin has been used in ferrets (all research applications in the study of various parasites in the ferret). The articles made no mention of side-effects, although that was not the point of the study. If it is in widespread use in ferrets in Miami, I would surmise that there aren't many adverse reactions, or we would have heard about it by now. Just remember that it is an extra-label usage (it is marketed for dogs), and be wary for any type of reaction following dosage. To Chris, Crimson, and Clover - Unfortunately, foods formultated for obese or inactive cats has decreased levels of protein and carbohydrates. I would suggest that you go back to Iams kitten food, especially with a twelve-week old. However, there is nothing wrong with oranges (in moderation). To Gerry Roston concerning people vaccinating their own pets - First off, I understand the finances involved with taking a pet to the vet for its shots ($$$). People wouldn't vaccinate their own children, would they? Also, who issues the rabies and distemper vaccination certificates? Who examines the ferret for other health problems? Animals should be occasionally seen by a vet to be checked over. The best time for this is during the annual (or semiannual, for older animals) trips to the vet. Pet owners should be cognizant of the expenses of owning pets, and good health care should be figured into it (this applies to all species, not just pet owners). Proper health care should also be figured into the breeding and selling of ferrets. If the profit margin is so slim that people have to vaccinate at home to sell ferrets, then it most likely isn't a profitable way to make money anyhow. Then there are the owners who get pets on a whim, and run out of money to take care of them properly.... I don't want to get in trouble with the rescue facilities out there, because the financial burden is even more difficult on you. But by vaccinating ferrets prior to adopting them - you are ensuring that the ferret will wait at least another year prior to seeing a vet. Do the animal a favor - give him a certificate for vaccination from your local vet (call your vet up - most of them will be happy to work with you). I'm sure I'll hear from a lot of people on this subject and that's okay (I shrink from NO controversy). I am as outraged at the price of veterinary care in this country as the rest of you are. But good health care far outweighs the cost-effectiveness of catalog-shopping for vaccines and needles. Bruce Williams, DVM [log in to unmask] [Posted in FML issue 0722]