Ferret Problem

Question
I recently adopted a ferret from a shelter, and brought it home to live with my other ferret. She (the shelter ferret) is two, whereas my "current" ferret is one.
They were both put into a brand new cage in order to prevent fights over territory. They have not fought, but rather have been cuddling and playing together constantly. They don't like being seperated now.
But here's my problem...when I take her out of the cage to play...she scratches at the door to get back in! I've even tried taking her into another ferret-safe room, and blocked the door with a baby gate, and she'll scratch at it for hours. I don't understand. My other ferret continues to play without a problem, but she just wants back in the cage.
How do I get her to play properly? Am I scaring her?

Answer
It sounds like maybe your new shelter baby is so used to being in the cage, that possibly she feels insecure outside of the cage.  Possibly for a day or two it might be a good idea to leave the cage door open and have your ferret out to play and see if she will just come join on her own possibly.  Either way, short outings where she is returned to the cage afterwards will reassure her that no one is going to take her away from her new home, which she obviously loves very much and wants to hang onto desperately.  You must be a good mommy!   Just go slowly and be gentle with her. So many new things for her to get used to!

COngratulations on giving a home to a shelter ferret.  You'll be surprised - they seem to know they've been given a second chance and, once she gets used to her new home and you, she'll likely bond very very tightly to you :-)

jacquie