Ferrets:

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Ferrets have been in captivity for thousands of years. The domestic ferret (Mustela putorious furo) differs from its wild cousins, the European ferrets and the North American black-footed ferrets. They differ in their ability to not only survive in the wild but also in temperament. They are much calmer.
 
Ferrets are omnivores, meaning they are meat and vegetable eaters. They have an average lifespan of 5-7 years. Ferrets are prone to several diseases/conditions; these include heartworm disease, diarrhea, parasites, adrenal gland disease and insulinoma. Heartworm disease in ferrets is very serious, sudden cardiac/respiratory arrest and death may occur.
 
Ferrets often groom and chew on whatever is laying around, therefore, are prone to obstructions with hairballs and foreign bodies. Unlike cats, they usually will not vomit a hairball, but we still recommend a hairball remedy. If there is a foreign body, surgery is often required. Please contact your veterinarian if your ferret vomits or begins to act abnormally.
 
Ferrets can contract influenza from people, so please use caution if anyone in your family is sick. A healthy ferret is usually not at risk of influenza becoming fatal. Ferrets are very (100%) susceptible to the canine distemper virus. They should be vaccinated for distemper and rabies. Please ask your veterinarian or technicians for proper vaccine schedules.
 
Most ferrets are spayed or neutered before one purchases them from the pet store. If, however, your ferret is not spayed/neutered it is highly recommended to do so as soon as possible. Females go into estrus (heat) at 5-6 months of age and will remain in heat; this is potentially fatal because of constant blood loss and subsequent anemia. Neutering males will reduce scent production. You may spay or neuter your ferret  at any time after 12 weeks of age, best done between 4-6 months of age.
 
Unfortunately, ferrets are prone to neoplasia (cancer); this is a primary cause of death. If found early, these tumors may be removed and potentially extend your ferret’s lifespan. Each case is on an individual basis and your veterinarian will discuss the best options with you.
 
Geriatric animals (ferrets over 4 years of age) need to be checked every 6 months for lumps/bumps and other issues; we recommend blood work and ultrasound (and/or radiographs) workups once a year after the age of  4.
 
Please feed your ferret good-quality ferret diets – avoid rich treats and people food. Obesity can be a problem when high calorie treats are given. Feed your ferret several times a day to avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Chocolate is fatal to ferrets!!!
 
Ferret heartworm prevention and flea control are both very important. Ferrets can develop heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes; heartworm disease can be transmitted even to strictly indoor animals! There is monthly heartworm prevention for ferrets which can be flavored to their liking. The only safe flea control product isAdvantage Feline <9lbs – all other products may cause a reaction and could perhaps be fatal! You may bathe your ferret; use a mild oatmeal and aloe shampoo and dry them well with a towel because you don’t want them to get too cold. You may use a hair dryer with extreme caution, being careful not to overheat your pet.
 
Ferret Diseases:
Insulinoma is a common ferret ailment. It is a tumor of the pancreas. Symptoms of insulinoma include lethargy, weakness, difficulty rising from sleep, drooling, pawing at the mouth, weight loss, rear led in- coordination, seizures and vomiting. 
Adrenal gland disease is associated with overproduction of sex steroid hormones by the adrenal gland. Common symptoms of adrenal gland disease include alopecia (hair loss), itchiness, swollen vulva, prostate enlargement, lethargy, & rear leg weakness. There may be other symptoms.
 
If your ferret begins to act differently or you are at all concerned, please do not hesitate to call us. We are happy to answer any of your questions. 
 
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