Hello readers,
I would like to take a moment to introduce the newest member of Ferret Wise
Shelter staff --- Frank Jr.  Frank is a 3 yr old who has joined our mascot
Master Ewok as a vasectomized hob.
 
To Kevin--
A vasectomized hob does not lose it's scent... one common error is those who
hear the term descenting associate the scent glands ( in a ferrets neck) to
the anal gland ( in the lower body).  Now Kevin, a hob - has a greater odor
or scent when in rut... or season.  This is generated through the scent
glands and oils in the fur.  A vasectomy will NOT lessen the scent of the
hob, as the hormone levels remain the same -- they just are not able to
fertilize anymore.
 
If the odor of your male is too much for you to handle the only cure I can
think of is altering.  The scent of a hob will reduce greatly in off season
months... but I cannot think of a way to help during rut.  We are very much
attached to our boys and do not mind their remarkable fragrance, but I am
aware of others that have health problems with the fragrance of an
unaltered male.
 
Hope this helps...
[Posted in FML issue 1563]