Hello, I find all of this discussion about non-snuggly ferrets somewhat baffling. Ever since she was a kit, Sunshine has been an absolute attention hound. She fell asleep on my hand the first time I held her, and is very kissy (I feel as though she will lick my cheek clear off some day!). She loves to snuggle and sleep on my lap (especially if I was *just* about to get up). She has never kept bed priviledges, though, as, apparently, if feet are under a blanket, they are fair game! Our Shades is not quite as snuggly, but, loves a nice little scratch about the ears and back. He likes snuggles, but, not for quite as long as Sunshine. And, he is a bit more devilish about the sneak ankle attack. But, he behaves fine to climb in bed for a little while without the BOOT. If this is encouraging, they both are more affectionate with passing time. We have always encouraged this. Also, we usually punished naughty behavior with the traditional laboratory rat restraint hold: thumb and ring finger around the waist, and index and middle finger around the neck. This is an ideal submissive/time-out restraint as they can't nip, get away, or do anything this way. This has indicated clearly that we are the bosses (and, I *will* bathe you or clip your nails if I want to ;-) ). Also, with the fireplace questions. I have lived in a place with a fireplace with Sunshine. I found it truly nerve-wracking, but, I let her wander around in there (she is no dummy, she came out when she was too hot!). She did singe some whiskers the first time in, but didn't burn herself at all... and since has had little interest in it with a fire burning. But, keeping her from spreading ashes from a non-burning fireplace was next to impossible (little ball of spreading ashes... remember Pigpen from Peanuts?). Good luck with your snuggly little fuzzies!! kari -- --() ______ Kari Toyer / o) \ / \ _ (and Sunshine, <____ \ / \ \\ and Shades!!!) \ \_/ \ \\ (402) 472-6643 \ __ \ _// [log in to unmask] \ / \ ( )_/ ||`--' \__\ | _|| _\| "Ferrets have two modes: asleep... and in trouble!!" [Posted in FML issue 1030]