Some have posted objections to calling deafness a defect. I'm sorry that they feel offended, but I stand by that characterization. Clearly ferrets have the physical structures with the purpose of providing hearing. If these structures do not provide hearing, then this seems to me a defect (or injury). I have not seen it suggested that those ferrets who make it into this world deaf deserve any less love or care than those with hearing. I have not seen it suggested that euthanizing deaf ferrets be practiced. However, it does not make sense to intentionally create deaf animals (who would normally hear) simply to enjoy a color or pattern that looks pretty. Someone suggested that not all deaf humans have deaf children and that perhaps not every kit from a deaf parent would be deaf. I do not find it worth that risk. The situation that started this discussion was breeding of a deaf ferret known to produce (at least some) deaf kits. We humans are manipulating the breeding behavior and survival of ferrets and have the responsibility to choose wisely for them. Despite the best anyone can do for a ferret in finding it a home, there are no guarantees. A ferret that does not have to overcome deafness, cancers, blindness, heart defects, etc has that extra opportunity to fit in to a home, survive, and even (hopefully) thrive. A deaf ferret has that extra opportunity to be unexpectedly startled into biting (and all the potential consequences) or to fail to avoid a threat (lost and can't hear the squeaky toy, car, dog). Since we choose for them, let's give them the advantages and avoid unnecessary hurdles. Debra in Fort Worth [Posted in FML issue 3115]