Darrin writes
>sorry but introducing defective genes just for the sake of "cuteness"
>bothers me... I myself would love to own a panda or silvermitt..  but
>not at the sake of the possibilities of genetic disabilities..
>
>do others have feeling on this ?
 
 --- You're speaking to the "mutha" of all believers of this.  Linda is
right, silvermitts have been around for a good many years and seem to be
very healthy and intelligent.  But blaze's and Pandas, mixes with all
sorts of spotting (irregular white spotting especially), I believe to
just not be.... the hardiest of the gentic pool.  They are sweet, loving
animals.  When they are deaf, they don't even know it and they are fine.
However, I wonder about GI effects, certain tail (and limb) abnormalities
at birth, the slight possibility of heart defects, the possibility of a
slightly shortened life, uhm ... and gosh knows what else what.  Don't
panic readers, the actual healthy effects don't seem common.  Enjoy the
babies you have.  I"m just saying that I am completely against breeding
these animals at all.  Breeders have discussed with me high mortality
rates in baby kits as well as breeding problems (sterility?) in
themselves.  They would be able to share their opinions much more
accurately than I.  As far as colors ... well, I don't think we really
have much information on that.  I know that many seasoned ferret owners
each have their own odd experiences and opinions regarding a few colors
such as chocolates and cinnamons.
 
Wolfy
http://wolfysluv.jacksnet.com
[Posted in FML issue 4669]