Bob- although I wholeheartedly agree with you on the guilt thing about being involved in the domestication of animals, you have to remember that we didn't domesticate them. And I think that most ferrets are happier when they are around humans. I'm not saying it should be that way, or always has been that way, but I know that my female, given the choice, will come to me for attention and love, rather than another ferret. She genuinely appears to love people. By the way, I don't dress up Alex but she is caged. Although I hate that she is, I can't get her to use the litter box religiously and so.... Sorry, but I don't like having ferret crap on my carpet. If you know of someway to get her to use the litter box, let me know. About the jumping thing, I used to have a male named Kamakazee, named because he would stand on the couch and take a flying leap into my arms. I think that's a very individual thing in ferrets. Alex will jump off of moderatly high things (especially when she wants something) but my friend's female won't even jump off a couch. Just some thoughts. Don't be to harsh on everyone, at least their ferrets are happy and loved!! Bye Tracy, Matt, and Alex(happy and well-adjusted) :-> [Posted in FML issue 0963]