Is it possible for a ferret to become lead poisoned? We have an antique desk that our Henry figured out how to climb up the back of. He was sleeping in a stationery drawer (not much room or ventilation) It was his favorite sleeping place for a few weeks until we noticed a distinct change in his personality when he would wake-up. Best way to discribe it is "disturbed" he was kind of shaky, unable to wake-up completely and a bit mean. The desk is from the 1920s imported from Great Britain from a since destroyed monastery. The finish does have a distinct smell. We figure it is possible that it could be lead tainted. We have also heard of woodworkers coming down with symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome from working with Tongue Oil. We don't know what the desk is finished with but is it possible that Henry could have reacted adversely to a lead based finish? We have since fixed it so he cannot get into the desk. But, he still tries to get in bonking his head repeatedly. What are symptoms of lead poisoning? What are the treatments, if any? Risk of permanent damage (he is a youngin' at 6 months)? Not a chance? Any body else let their ferrets sleep in drawers of older furniture with no problemo? I think his behavior has improved since closing the desk. But, I always feel like I am imagining things. (Maybe I should stop sleeping in the desk :-) CL [Posted in FML issue 1244]