There seem to be four running theories on the causes of cancers in ferrets:
 
Theory One: Ferreta at some farms are neutered/spayed at too early an age (4-
6 weeks, usually). It's thought that this does not allow the ferrets time to
develop natural immunities to cancers. I'd like to see a study done to see
how valid this is. Of the ferrets I've had two were spayed at or after their
first heat. One is now six and in perfect health with no signs of neoplasia.
The other is 2-1/2 yrs and ditto. Granted, this does not prove the theory,
that's why I'd like to see a study done.
 
Theory Two: Some ferrets are "cancer prone" due to herediary causes. Could be
that the gene pool is thinning. A study would be in order here too.
 
Theory Three: Diet may be a factor. Some ferret foods are mostly vegetable
and grain based. The ferret is a carnivore and not adaptable to a vegan diet.
The extra work required to process vegetable proteins could be stressful on the
immune system. I feed mine Iams Cat  or Kitten foods. Ditto on a study of diets.
 
Theory Four: A Combination of any two or all three of the previous theories.
 
 
Roger McMillian - Owned by Cinnamon Bear, Megabyte, Tribble, Heidi & Sneakers.
Director - GCFA | Moderator, Ferret Forum | Editor, Off The Paw |
 
 
[Posted in FML issue 0378]