Regarding the 1 year old with possible adrenal symptoms, I would guess a vet would want more information then you know right now. there is an adrenal test that can be done, but it costs money ($150 3 years ago), and if your vet is very ferret knowledgable a lot of times they won't insist on doing it, because you usually can tell from symptoms. But just hair loss alone I don't think would be enough. If this ferret is a male, then you definitely need to keep track of the peeing issue. That's a definite sign. And it is very dangerous to let a male ferret peeing more than usual to go without some kind of vet investigation. With adrenal it is the prostate that swells up and can prevent the ferret from eliminating any urine. And regarding the nyc ferret questions...some people clean ferret ears every week as a habit so they don't forget, but if not, they should be cleaned when they are dirty. And, ferrets are free-roamers regarding food. They do not overeat, usually. So they should have access to food at all times. Their digestive system is short, about 3 to 4 hours from eating to elimination. Definitely more than 2 times a day. If you have a choice between going with the advice from a pet store, or the advice you read in a ferret book, go with the book (a book recently published, say, within the last 10 years). Pet stores are inconsistent about those that choose to learn about ferrets and those that simply sell ferrets. Even within a pet store organization there are inconsistencies. And finally, most people knowledgable about ferrets (outside of those that claim to be so within the pet store), do not endorse using any form of chip bedding. A blankie and a litter pan, and a hammock. Free access to food and water and their owner, and you have, more or less, ferret heaven. Oh, and raisins. Minta & Linus [Posted in FML issue 4029]