Karen, Great idea for a house. Calvin's dad made him one a year or so ago. We did not incorporate the darkness idea. His house is carpeted throughout. He has never used it for a potty. I think I will try your idea. I know there are alot of opinions on the light theory. I don't know what to think but it is worth a try. Calvin is 2.5 years old. He started having an adrenal problem when he was almost 2. He is just now about 90% back to his former self. Yes he had surgery also he had a different set of symtoms than hair loss. It was so very scarey and hard to deal with. There is only one vet in our area of MI that knows much about ferrets. I had to take him to Michigan State University for treatment. Even at the university they had not had a ferret with his symtoms. Very difficult situation for all of us. I would try anything to prevent this from happening again. We did not have a choice. Surgery was the only option because of the symptoms he had. (There was an overproduction of testosterone, swelling of the prostrate gland and eventual blockage of the urinary track) He was in agony. He started the symptoms 1 year ago and had surgery in May. I worry about him everyday and watch him close. Here is some food for thought. We have one ferret and 3 adult children. The kids come and go at all hours. I keep a light on over my kitchen sink all night, every night. Calvin sleeps in the dining room adjacent to the kitchen. His hammock does not have a cover. This supports the light theory. I know I will be trying out the darkness. Everyone knows they seek the darkest spot when they are out and go napping. The lights will all be out at night. I've only been reading FML for around 2 weeks and I've have learned so much. I try not to miss an issue. We never thought about taking Calvin out in the snow, having a digging box in the house, teaching him to roll over, or rewarding them when they come out on signal. I have a second ferret now and she taught Calvin how to climb inside the drawers. That is their favorite spot when allowed in that room. Thanks for all the great ideas. Eunice Keely Calvin (Wanna stay away from that hospital, mom) Gypsy (Well I wore Calvin out . . . where's that cat?) [Posted in FML issue 2511]