To Deborah and Mike concerning Charlie: What a terrible time for Charlie. Diarrhea in ferrets can certainly be caused by ulcers in ferrets. Gastric ulcers are primarily caused by stress, which Charlie seems to have had in abundance the last few weeks (broken leg, new co-habitant). Helicobacter mustelae is a common finding in ferret stomachs, and although it has been seen with ulcers, a definite cause/effect relationship has still not been proven. Usually, ferrets with ulcers will pass dark tarry stools from the presence of blood. There are many other causes of diarrhea in the ferret that should be considered. With a new arrival in the house, I wouldn't totally discont the Greee Diarrhea Virus, which is a self-limiting disease of primarily older ferrets which most often responds nicely to antibiotics and good hydration. I would also check the plated leg for the presence of an infection. The best bet is to take Charlie back in, get him on some antibiotics, and make sure he takes in plenty of fluids. The electrolytes will stabilize once the hydration status and appetite returns. Endoscopy is probably not warranted in Charlie, as many cases of gastric ulcers result in such tiny pinpoint ulcers that the exam may be falsely negative. But it's good that your vet knows about Helicobacter; there are so many who still don't. It looks like your vet is keeping up with the literature. Bruce Williams, DVM Department of Veterinary Pathology [log in to unmask] Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (202) 576-2453/2454 Washington, D.C. 20306-6000 Best of luck with Charlie... [Posted in FML issue 0923]