This is directed to anyone who knows anything about ferret biology.
 
I was just wondering if anyone had tried a semi-castration procedure on a
male ferret or if it might have been done as part of a study.  What I mean
by semi-castration is removal of 1 testicle only.
 
I would think that this would cause a decrease in the level of testosterone
during the fertile period (less stinky!) and would cause less agressive and
territorial behavior year-round.  That is, unless the LH level causes the
single testicle to work overtime producing enough testosterone to make up
for the missing testicle.  I would think having the single testicle would
also enable a kit to grow to full size, or close to it, as well as causing
his coat to be fuller.  I guess it could also sterilize him if it caused
enough of a decrease in testosterone production.  That would be bad or good
depending on if you wanted a breeder.  Or you may get the sexual behavior
without fertility, which might be like a vasectomized male.
 
I'm not a doctor or a vet so my question might seem a little stupid, but if
no one has thought of this or proved it harmful then perhaps some of the
vets on the list might look into it.  If you're a vet (or not) and know why
its a bad idea, please email me.  I'm not planning on trying to have this
done because my little boy is already neutered, so don't worry about that
either.  ;) I'm just curious.
 
Thanks.
 
- William
[Posted in FML issue 1835]