Ferret Reproduction - Anatomy & Physiology
MALE
- Male is known as the Hob.
Penis
- J-shapes os penis lies within the caudal section of the penis dorsal to the penile urethra.0
- Supporting bone is the Baculum.
- Penis points cranially.
- Opening of the prepuce is on the ventral abdomen.
Testes
- Two testes carried externally in the scrotum.
- Sexual maturity is usually reached during the first spring after birth at about 4-8 months of age.
- Once testes have descended, the inguinal canal closes and they are not able to be retracted.
- Spermatogenic activity increases within the semniferous tubules of the testes from December-July.
- Testes become noticeably enlarged in preparation for the breeding season (March-August).
Accessory Glands
- The only accessory sex gland is the prostate gland.
- A fusiform enlargement around the proximal part of the urethra at the neck of the bladder.
Puberty and Sexual Maturity
- Males mate the year after they are born.