>I know this is a a silly question but I was shocked by the diagnosis. I >have never thought about animals being depressed. >Mike,Melony, Josh, Qpid & Valentine Dorman First, the physiological symptoms you are describing sound awfully similar to ECE. As to Valentine's reported behavior, I have heard from several individuals that depression can be experienced by a ferret over loss or a distinct change in environment or schedule. Personally, after only one of my original ferrets[Deja] survived a bout with ECE, her loss of her companions appears to have markedly altered her behavior. Even several months later and two new ferts, she is still very lethargic, her affect could only be described as flat, her mood depressed. All medical diagnostic tests have been performed [redundantly] to rule out any possible chemical or physiological causes. All tests have been returned picture perfect. Considering her clean bill of health, I am left with the only other possibility [her psyche] being the root of her recent behavior. She is only four years old and prior to her loss, she was very active. Presently, she still has to be spoon fed as she does not voluntarily eat. BTW, she experienced none of the symptoms of ECE that her companions suffered. With Deja, the cause for this apparent behavior would most likely be a depression due to the loss of her companions. However, Valentine's behavior may be a symptom of her physical distress. Ferrets can get very lethargic whenever an illness becomes serious. An illness can go on for quite some time before they actually present any behavioral changes. Some individuals that I have shared this with believe ferts can sense and adopt the mood of thier owner. Considering this possibility, it may be wise for you to clearly demonstrate an upbeat, positive, playful, and affectionate attitude and behavior toward Valentine, despite your worry for her well-being. As far as the possibility of ferts suffering from a neurologically based mood disorder, while I have heard of this in dogs and cats, and of successful pharmacological intervention, I am personally unaware of this occurring in ferts. However, I see no reason to discount this possibility. best wishes, alphachi ps give her an extra hug and a smile for me :-) [Posted in FML issue 1831]