HI Pam,

Well there actually is NO difference in the ferret you got from
Carolina ferrets to those at any pet shop which sells neutered
ferrets.... accept that it did not start off with it's proper canine
distemper vaccinations. A BIG part of early age hyperadrenal onset
issues are caused when the adrenal glands are overburdened by
spay/neuter. This causes them to have to work hard to send hormonal
messages ( which now are not generated by the sex organ) to the
endocrine system. The adrenal glands usual work are to regulate stress
( adrenaline) and blood sugars & salts... so adding more work to the
tiny gland is a real burden.

Carolina Ferrets leads folks down a path of false hopes claiming the
ferrets are neutered at a later stage - that promises better health-
but as you found the kits you got at 6 &7 weeks ( I know others that
have seen them ready to go there at 5 weeks) are no different than
just picking one up at the pet store.

The real clue to healthier ferrets is in allowing their bodies to
mature before neuter.. this allows the bones to develop and get full
density ( less chance of one cancers) and the muscles will develop.
While the body is growing you also get the benefits of hormonal
production which strengthens the immune system. There are many reasons
why it is a good thing to allow a ferret to become grown before neuter.
A RESPONSIBLE breeder will provide a contract stating the ferret is to
be neutered at a later date- usually 7 mos to a year) and those
breeders are ones to look for the next time you want a healthier
ferret.

However, the reality is that any animal can get illnesses, but the
deterrence of hyper adrenal issues which is HUGE-- in my experience
lessens greatly when ferrets are altered later in life.

Presently I am caring for 2 ferrets that are nearly 9 years of age-
they were altered at 3 years of age and so far have needed 1 melatonin
implant and a few monthly lupron depots ( actually every other month)
they are fully furred and doing well, in fact one is a heart patient
that had a spleen removed and other than being slow she id doing just
fine.

Breeding is a huge part of ferret health-- but it too can be
compromised by neutering at too young an age. Unfortunately you found
a breeder who works on a pet shop mentality instead of breeding for
health and temperament.

Alicia D.
shelter volunteer, ferret advocate

[Posted in FML 5701]