It seems that some readers of the FML have the opinion that neglect triggers adrenal symptom occurances in domesticated ferrets. While this is a highly speculative, and a callous statement at best, I would encourage everyone to look at -- and try to comprehend the adrenal function. This is an oversimplified attempt but -- One of the primary functions of the adrenal gland is to manage stress. Thus, if you have an environment that is stressful, and there is a tired, overworked adrenal gland ( from supplying the extra messages to the pituitary & thyroid in the endocrine system) you have a stronger case for adrenal symptoms manifesting. It is COMMON sense. I agree there has been nil study on this topic, but if you do understand the importance of the gonad system working in conjunction with the endocrine system then it certainly makes more sense as to why these symptomatic occurances are so widely spread -- especially in early alter ferrets. Other factors will certainly encourage premature symptomatic adrenal display -- being too much sugar in the diet, or improper diet, ( another adrenal function regulates the salt / sugar in the body of the ferret) perhaps even light frequency though studies on that have not been conclusive. ( Ferrets will not maintain a proper coat if deprived form natural daylight-- rather they can display an adrenal coat from lack of lighting-- though not have the condition-- in my experiences! Wjhile stress can be attributed easily to assisting an overtaxed adrenal gland into hyperadrenal status, I doubt very much if it is willful neglect on the part of a human care giver-- just the day in day out stress of perhaps an unstable environment with many changes going on that would be the culprit. My two or three cents on this issue! Alicia at Ferret Wise Meet the folks at Ferret Wise and learn about our mission: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~crassi/index.html "Fun-alia" catalog with lots of neat stuff - supports Ferret Wise programs at: http://www.dartmouth.edu/~crassi/funalia.html and Visit iGive at http://www.iGive.com/ferretwise where you can anonymously support ongoing rehabilitation and education projects at Ferret Wise by clicking and browsing at their site ! The ferrets will thank you! [Posted in FML issue 3101]