Hi Regarding pesticides, I would be very careful about allowing ferrets to walk or play on lawn areas that may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Due to their small size, ferrets seem to be very intolerant of harsh chemicals. Look instead for "safe" areas like parks or your own back yard. Regarding coughing while eating, many ferrets seem to try to eat more quickly than they are able to. As a result they 'gack' as I call it. If it happens only while eating, I wouldn't worry too much. Of course, always be alert to the possibility that a piece of food has gotten caught in the ferret's mouth or that something has gone down the wrong way. If, on the other hand, your ferret is coughing all of the time, see a vet. He or she might have an infection, cardiomyopathy, or another problem. As for seedy poops, I don't worry much about them as long as they are isolated instances and the ferrets are otherwise healthy, happy, and eating well. If you see seedy poops continuing for more than a day or so or if your ferret does not appear well, have a vet examine the stool for parasites (e.g. coccidia). Happy Ferreting! Gina Hart/Sage Ferrets Visit the Sage Ferrets web site at http://www.geocities.com/Petsburgh/1122 [Posted in FML issue 2660]