How to bond with a rescued anxious ferret that bites and scratches?

It could take Lyla a few weeks to get use to her new surroundings. I would make sure she is in a low stress location in the house. Also, allow her to have some space she can get away and relax. I recommend finding a special treat only you or your boyfriend gives her. that way she starts to look forward to you being around.

I would recommend giving rose more time. It can take weeks for them to warm up to people. I recommend making sure you have a safe, stress free environment to help allow Rose to relax and be less stressed. Also, I would try to find a treat that Rose really loves and only you give her. This way she gets excited to interact with you.

Make sure she has her own safe space so she doesn’t become overly stressed (a large dog crate with food, water and litter box is perfect). Make sure all meal times are interactive and distract with food or treats when you’re trying to make physical contact. Take it slow and eventually she will become used to you being around. This website has some good tips: http://www.urbancatleague.org/TamingFerals

Thanks for reaching out about Hoss. Behavioral training is similar to that in puppies. Training to know what is chewable (their toys) and what is not (fingers, furniture) is by a combination of positive and negative reinforcement. A good guide to training in puppies might be useful. Putting something like bitter apples or Tabasco sauce on your fingers might work some, but also don't want to make then hand shy. Good luck.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Ferrets typically do not enjoy being held, and do enjoy playing with their owners more. If you have only had Eddie for a short while, he may not be very used to you, or people in general. I recommend moving slowly with him, and offering treats when he approaches you. Ferrets tend to "remember" negative experiences, so it is important to be as gentle with him as possible early on. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you may have about Eddie!

Thanks for reaching out about Bubba and including photos. Behavioral training in ferrets is often difficult. Is he young or older? If older, did he used to play nicer? Older ferrets (3+ years) can sometimes develop adrenal tumors that produce testosterone, and increase aggression. Otherwise, it is probably behavioral and just plays hard. Shorter periods of play time, and stopping prior to "rough" play might help alleviate problems. Consulting an animal behavioralist might have better ideas. Good luck.

The best thing you can do is not to force him. Just be nice to him, talk calmly and give him small treats of something he likes a lot. In time he will come around. Forcing him will just make it worse. Most dogs do better if you ignore them at first so they don't feel threatened. Hope this helps. Best wishes.