i bought a genetic mutator and used it on a holiday hot chocolate zolnixi that only had a bandana mutation 3. i have waited to see if something happens but so far no carried or visual has appeared. have i made a mistake by using it on a holiday pet or do i simply need to wait?

I'm assuming this is the pet in question?

She's most definitely received a carried trait from the mutator but because you haven't tested her you can't see what trait she's gained. If you buy a testing kit from the trade broker you can test her and see what trait she's gained that way or you can post in one of the many free testing threads in the Breeding Discussion forum and get her tested that way.