Ferrets are prone to a variety of diseases. These include diarrhea, intestinal foreign bodies, parasites, heart disease, and various types of tumors. If your pet develops one of these ailments, be sure to seek medical care as soon as possible. Here are some common illnesses and their treatments. Keep in mind that your pet’s symptoms will vary according to the cause.
Adrenal disease is the most common syndrome in ferrets. The adrenal gland produces several hormones that regulate many body functions. When the gland is overactive, it produces too much sex hormones. This disorder is caused by an overactive adrenal gland, which is also known as hyperplasia. Adrenal tumors can be benign or malignant and may invade internal organs near the tumor’s origin.
Various drugs can be used to treat the symptoms of inflammatory disease in ferrets. Anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressive agents may be prescribed. However, there is currently no specific vaccine for ferrets. Often, the treatment consists of supportive care and fluid replacement. Symptoms of inflammatory disease may not be obvious until the pet becomes dehydrated. You should see your veterinarian if your pet begins to exhibit any of these signs.
Diarrhoea is another common cause of death in ferrets. Diarrhoea is a serious illness that should be treated immediately. Be sure to monitor your pet for general wellness and abnormal behavior. Symptoms of green slime may indicate a serious illness. Ferrets with diarrhea and vomiting may need treatment. You should also make sure your pet is not dehydrated or infected with a virus.
Another condition that can affect ferrets is aleutian disease. This is caused by a virus called parvovirus. It can be transmitted by a single infected Mustelidae animal or from ferret to ferret. Symptoms of aleutian disease include anemia and vomiting, diarrhea, and fecal odor. The infection may also be spread through air.
Cystocentesis in ferrets is performed under anesthesia. The needle is inserted along the ventral midline of the tail, about two to five cm distal to the base of the tail. This procedure is often painful for an unanesthetized ferret. Anesthesia is usually administered before the procedure. The catheter is then secured with a small incision or by a butterfly suture.
