>Most Swedish ferrets don't die from anything else than old age.
>/Maria
 
Dear Maria,
The belief that anyone, including ferrets, dies from old age is a common but
entirely inaccurate misnomer.  I am fascinated by this issue of longevity in
differing breeds and breeders.  I hate to see these little guys go at any
age.  Unfortunately, the data appear slim that there is any real difference.
Am I right in assuming most MF ferts, on average, go for about 6-8 years,
but usually on the earlier side of the spread, or at the very least, are
considered geriatric and suffer a host of disorders that demand extra care?
Unfortunately, I would think it would be safe to assume that most ferret
owners are not ferret-wise as it appears most vets suffer the same.  These
factors probably shorten the lifespan considerably; especially in MF
ferrets, which are as common around here as tabbys!  Helicobacter shows up
in a majority of ferts at age 3 according to some sources.  Adrenal cancer,
though not as common, shortly thereafter [4-6].  Is there any difference in
gender on the morbidity of adrenal cancer?  Anyone?
 
best wishes,
alphachi
[Posted in FML issue 1891]