From:
James Giacalone
Date: 2001-10-10 13:50:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Neuter in February Digest Number 424
YES! A question for the anatomist! Ferrets, like
rodents and some lagamorphs, maintain an "Open"
inguinal canal. This is the canal that the testes
descend through from the abdomen at birth or soon
after. There is a large fat pad that develops on the
cranial pole of the testes to prevent it from moving
back into the abdomen. Some species will voluntarily
retract the testes when you pick them up as a
defensive measure! In the early spring, Hamish will
begin to go into a seasonal "rut". This is dependent
on photoperiod (in the case of ferrets, lengthening of
daylight). Under the influence of increased
testosterone production, his testicles will begin to
drop into his scrotum from just inside the inguinal
canal. By the end of the summer (shortening of
photoperiod) testosterone levels drop and the testes
retract to the upper portion of the scrotum and lower
portion of the inguinal canal. Breeders, of many
species of animals, can alter the photoperiod with
artificial lighting to bring the animals into season
at a time of year that they normally do not. Surgery
is a bit easier with the testicles descended since the
spermatic cord is easier to get a hold of but the
blood vessels are enlarged at this time. He can be
neutered with the testes retracted if the testes and
cord are gently pulled through the surgical incision
much like a cat neuter.
J. Giacalone
FRCC Veterinary Technology
Larimer Campus Colorado
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