I don't usually post but what I have to say about the litterbox is worth a good read!! Dunc and I had problems with our fuzzles and the litterbox (surprise, surprise) and out of a combination and curiosity, I think we solved our problem!! It started with the desire to e able to call each ferret with a different sound. So, we ran out, bought bulk raisins and started training. Each day I'd call Nihil and when the fuzzles came running, only nihil would get a treat. Half hour later, I'd make a different noise and when they both came, Nemo would get is treat. It ended up working great and soon both were coming to their specific noise. So then we were thinking about how tired we were of picking up the boys messes when it dawned on us! If they learned to come to their calls for a treat, they'll learn to poop for a treat!! We started very basic. Any backwards motions earned them a one-way trip to the litterpan. If they did their buisness in it, they got a liver treat. After about two weeks, Nihil would jump in the pan, do his thing, and then come to me for his treat. His brother is a little slower but we haven't given up!! The main point is that accidents are almost non-existant with Nihil and fewer with Nemo. You have to be very diligent, determined and smart when doing this. If you miss him poo in the litterbox, the association goes away and you'll have to start all over. Not only this, but Nemo presently jumps in the pan, backs his rear into a corner and then pretends to poo. (nice try- since when did a poo last 1.2 seconds with no funny face???;) ) We've been putting him back in, and if still no poo, then no treat. He gets pretty pi**ed off sometimes but he's learning. Try it and let me know how it works!! Now, about the throat swelling. . . About three weeks ago Nihil's throat totally swelled up. It looked similar to a hamster when they stuff their cheeks! After having multiple heart attacks, dunc and I raced him to the vets and they ruled out Kidney failure, Tumors and heart disease. It turned out that it was an infection from a puncture wound! We located his boo-boos and discovered little teeth holes that looked remarkably like his little brothers!! Has this happened to anyone else??? Also, Nihil has porked right up. We haven't changed his diet, he only gets one raisen and liver treats and still has regular bowel movements. I don't want him to get fat but the vet is not too sure as to why he'd suddenly pack on the extra weight. He's not fat, just 'buff'. Any ideas on this also?? I'll stop babbling now!! Loves and fuzzle snuggles to all! Thx in advance for your replies!! Hope it helps!! Karen, Duncan and the dirt-digging, liver scarfing, corner pooping, sock stealing, rope chewing, ever cat terrorizing, dynamic duo Nihil and his amazing scrawny sidekick Captain Nemo. [Posted in FML issue 1746]