Anna - Ringworm is passed by hair folicles. I was in the same predicament several years ago when some children brought 2 badly infected kittens to my door. What could I do - I had to care for them. Even though I housed them outside, a neighbor child tranmitted the infection to the ferrets. Some got it and some didn't, and most went away without more than a topical treatment. Whitney got it the worst (she had insulinoma) because her immune system wasn't working properly. She had to be treated with topicals, shampoo, and even the pills but as soon as I stopped treatment she would get it again. She was on medication till she died in November. I didn't get it, but children are highly susceptible (and some adults). To treat the ferrets (either for infection or so they wouldn't get it) I used Sebolux antifungal shampoo and Fungisan (a clear painless, odorless topical solution). I also had to disinfect myself and clothes before entering our home with a highly diluted bleach and water mixture ( 1 part bleach to 30 parts water). After medicating the kittens I washed my hands and arms and shoes in the solution (actually I was reprimanded by my vet because I used straight bleach on myself) and the kittens were wiped down with the mixture because they were so badly infected (not face area). The problem you may have by not medicating the mother is that the kittens will probably get it too and then you will be medicating all and taking the chance of transmitting to your ferrets. It was a 6 week process for me for just the 2 kittens and the fear of bringing it in to my home. If you'd like more info you can email me at: [log in to unmask] hugs to all. tle [Posted in FML issue 1113]