To Scott Swain:
 
Don't have ferrets descented.  Most of their real scent comes from musk
glands - mostly on their faces.  THe anal scent glands are best not
removed from older ferrets - it is an expensive and pointless
mutilation.  Ferrets NEED to be neutered to be truly pleasant house
companions year round and for ease of survival of the females.  BOys
bathe in urine when the go into rut - stinky.  Girls will get anemic and
die if they go into season and aren't bred (or hormone shots,
vasectamized breedings, etc.).  Neutering is a health issue.  Ferrets
(usually) do not use their scent glands often.  Only when REALLY startled
or hurt.  THeir is a REAL FOUL smelling aroma that lasts usually less
than a minute and leaves absolutely no residue.  As breeders we strongly
do not advocate mutilating animals for such a minor inconvenience.
 
bill and diane killian
zen and the art of ferrets
[Posted in FML issue 1145]