Hi All... In my quest for information on how I can reduce and hopefully eliminate the problem of homeless animals and the killing of healthy animals I have come across groups that strongly support early spay/neuter in puppies and kittens. From everything that I have read I would have to agree with their argument as it seems to be a win-win situation for all involved - the vet, the owner, the shelter/rescue group and of course the animal. In contrast though, I know that in the ferret community there is strong opposition to ferret kits who are neutered early. I am just curious why this is? Are there ill effects that ferrets experience that pups and kittens do not? Is there research out there that explains the pros/cons of early spay/neuter in ferret kits? I know that the consequences of a female ferret who goes into heat and who does not mate is deadly, so doesn't early spay/neuter help eliminate this danger from the less informed owner? [I realize that this is not the prefered owner but let's be honest, it happens a lot]. I'm not trying to start a debate or fuel the fiires, I am simply interested. I do not have the answer and I am hoping that those out there who are better educated in the topic can explain it to me. I appreciate all the information and help that you guys can provide. Thank you. - kristen - love is merely a madness and I tell you, deserves as well a dark house & a whip as madmen do - shakespeare "As You Like It" ...could've been the willie nelson, could've been the wine... - the tragically hip [Posted in FML issue 3995]