Figure 4-16.
Mounting behavior. Ferret hyperadrenocorticism results in increases in plasma levels of one or more of the following sex steroids: estradiol, androstenedione, 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS).38 This hormonal imbalance may lead to increased sexual behavior including neck gripping, mounting, and pelvic thrusting, which may be interpreted by owners of pet ferrets as an aggressive behavioral change for which they will seek veterinary counseling.
(Courtesy Peter Fisher.)