It's interesting in our group.  We have the opposite problem.  After
surgeries and the 24-48 confinement period, the other ferrets literally
clambor over each other to lay on the one that had surgery.  They will
also climb into the transport/nursing cage and lay down.
 
It is their way of comforting a sick one also.
 
Hugs. tle
[Posted in FML issue 2329]