Hi everyone! I'm brand new to the list (I just got my first edition today) and I have some questions that I'm hoping someone will be able to answer for me. You can email me privately or publicly on the list, it doesn't matter ([log in to unmask] is my private address). I have an adorable little fuzzer face named Oso. He's 1 yr 10 mo old, but I've only had him for 6 months. He's litter trained, only nips while playing, gives kisses and follows me around the house whenever I leave the room to do something. Although he gives me kisses and follows me around, he doesn't like to be held. And, he's a very light sleeper, so even if I take him out of his cage when he's sleeping and try to hold him on my lap he wakes right up and wants to get away. Does anyone know why he's so lovable and friendly, but hates to be held? Is this normal? Also, I'm really worried now after reading about all the diseases that ferrets are susceptible to. What can I do to prevent Oso from getting any of these diseases? He is vaccinated for canine distemper (Galaxy D) but that's it. Should I get him any other shots? A couple months ago, he was having a hard time swallowing and choking a bit, so I rushed him to the vet immediately. I was so scared, I had x-rays done to make sure he was okay, and thank god he was. The doc says it was probably only a hairball. Since I've never had a ferret before, every time he sneezes or coughs or chokes on something, I panic and think he's sick and is going to die! I know that I shouldn't be so paranoid, but what are some signs I should look for if he REALLY was ill and needed vet attention? Also, is he lonely because he's an only child? He seems happy, but I'm not sure. We are thinking about getting him a playmate. Oso is a neutered male--should we get him a sister or a brother? Would he get along better with a male or a female? And, will he be mad if we bring home another ferret and put him in the same cage? Will he feel like someone is moving in on his private space or will he enjoy the company? Should I get separate cages? And, one final question...does anyone know of any upcoming shows within driving distance (4-5 hours) of Northern New Jersey? Please let me know! Thanks again! Jenni & Oso : ) [Posted in FML issue 2217]