One of our hobs had a problem with hair loss on his tail a few years ago. I can't remember what the cause was, but the vet gave us a bottle if Hibitane (which I believe is a general antiseptic solution used by vets a lot) and we dipped his tail in once a day. The hair grew back, and we didn't have any further problems. But our ferret was not impressed by being grabbed once a day and being held up while his tail was dipped in a bottle of the solution and sloshed around in it! Also regarding the forwarded post a few days ago from the lady who was trying to find homes for her ferrets and was upset because her jill was in heat and she couldnt afford to get it spayed - people in this situation should be aware there are other options. A hormone shot from a vet will cause a phantom pregnancy and give you time to save up for a spay operation. Kylie Preisig Ferretless in Queensland [Posted in FML issue 2674]