Thank you to all of you who responded. I learned a lot, and had some good laughs, especially Alexandra's hilarious post. I had no idea that when a ferret's rut is over, their little "jewels" can actually retreat for a while! And I had no idea that the rut can last for months! You can learn more from ferret owners and shelter owners than anything you will ever find on the internet in general. That is why I treasure this List. Hugs to all of you and your ferrets. Inge [Posted in FML 6779]