Ferret Disease Factos That Could Affect Your Ferret
No-one wants their ferret to get ill. However being aware of potential illnesses and can make the difference and prevent something from becoming more serious further down the line.
Right now we’re going to take a look some of the most common signs of ill health and the likely course of action if your ferret does suffer ill-health. Of course if you notice anything unusual seek advice from your Vet as soon as possible. This is also a great resource… healthy ferret guide
Let’s take a look at some common ferret diseases and there related symptoms…
Ferret Disease 1 – Epizootic catarrhal enteritis (bit of a mouthful)
This is a viral disease that’s particularly common in North America. Common indications: Tired lacking oomph, green feces, being off their food.
Ferret Disease 2 – Diseases of the endocrine system
Often caused by a tumor that is affecting the adrenal gland. Common symptoms: Vomiting and diarrhea, becomes scrawnier, Blackened poop.
Ferret Disease 3 – Digestive system problems
Ferret diseases of the digestive tract can often come from improper feeding. To ensure your ferret has the best chance of avoiding a digestive complication you have to get their nutrition right. For further ferret diet advice check out: Diet for ferrets Common symptoms: Having a glazed look in their eye, seeming weaker than usual, not responding to you like normal, trouble passing water (esp. Males)
Ferret Disease 4 – Lymphoma
This is a cancer in organs such as bone marrow, lymph nodes, liver and spleen. Common symptoms: Swellings, weight loss, weak legged
Ferret Disease 5 – Parasites
This will usually occur in two different ways. It will either be an internal form (such as Heartworms) or external form (such as Fleas and Ticks). Common symptoms: Scratching ears, ears containing brown residue, seeing ticks or mites on your ferret, diarrhea, Mucus stools
If you see any of the above symptoms, or any unusual symptoms for that matter, it’s important to get your Vet’s advice as soon as possible.
So what happens next? An animal health professional will examin a ferret and see what’s wrong.
Common ways of diagnosing ferret diseases
Many of the ways commonly used to diagnose ferret health problems are the same as those used with humans. It is likely the vet will one or a combination of urine and bodily samples, scans, examinations, and biopsies.
If your ferret turns out to be sick then your Vet will inform you of the recommended treatment
Common types of treatment for ferret diseases
If you do have a sick ferret your Vet may use a number of interventions to help them. These include using medication, surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or good old rest and heal approaches.
Some ferret diseases are more common than others. You need to be alert to any indicators that your ferret is poorly and take them to the Vet, this is very important. However following the correct diet recommendations as well as good care advice is a key factor in preventing ferret disease.A great way to learn ferret health secrets is to check out: Care for your ferret
