To Cheryl Cato: Hair loss restricted to the tail only should be monitored. If it spreads forward of the tail, then we should get concerned. There is no "magic amount" of hair loss that consistutes a diagnosis of adrenal disease. But if you can see definite thinning of the hair on the abdomen and flanks, then we should start thinking about that operation. A "belly" is usually not associated with adrenal associated endocrinopathy. It probably just suggests increased food intake and decreased exercise. Animals with "bellies", may have enlarged spleens, though,, and this should be checked. Bruce Williams, DVM Department of Veterinary Pathology [log in to unmask] Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (202) 576-2453/2454 Washington, D.C. 20306-6000 [Posted in FML issue 0937]