Ferret Disease And Illness

Ferret Disease And Illness

By Lee Dobbins

Some people look at me like I’m crazy when I say “I love my ferret”, but I do, and they can think what they want. My little guy brings me hours of enjoyment and sunshine to my gray days. The last thing in the world I want is for him to get sick, yet it’s a fact of life and in order to offer the best care (and quality of life), you have to keep an eye on what’s going on in their ferret worlds.

FERRET CARE NOTE: If you suspect your ferret is sick, take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Do not try to treat him at home.

What I’m going to discuss below isn’t fun, I’d much rather be writing about their fun, frolicking ways, but to ensure those lovable characteristics continue, keep an eye on your ferret’s health. Like most medical problems, if you catch them early, your veterinarian will have the best chance at a successful remedy.

FERRET FACTS:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Sub-Phylum: Vertibrata
Class: Mamalia
Sub-Class: Eutheria
Order: Carnivora
Family: Mustelidae
Sub-Family: Mustelinae
Genus: Mustela
Species: Mustela Putorius Furo

Ferrets are susceptible to multiple diseases, and depending on their lineage, they could adrenal gland disease, pancreatic tumors, lymphosarcoma or heart disease. And here’s something I only found out recently, ferrets can catch a human cold. No one likes a cold, but with bed rest and some TLC (tender loving care) you’ll soon be good as new, not so with your ferret. Ferrets have weak immune systems and if they were to catch your cold; it could prove fatal. If you’re sick, refrain from handling your ferret till you’re better.

Ask yourself this question, “Do you like extremes of heat and cold?” No…, well neither does your ferret; they have a low tolerance to extremes of heat or cold, so keep them in an area where temperatures stay consistent. I’m sure it’s common sense that you MUST keep fresh water available at all times, the little fellas can easily become dehydrated which can lead to a score of ferret medical problems.

FERRET FACT; Ferrets do not tolerate temperatures above 85 degrees well and may become lethargic.

Recently we had some friends over and grilled some big juicy steaks. So what you say… I didn’t invite you? Sorry about that, I only mention steaks to remind you that ferrets need a high protein diet and snack pretty much constantly throughout the day. That coupled with an active (to say it mildly) digestive system, and you need to keep their food bowl food, and litter box clean and free from waste.

Do you like to give your ferret treats? Don’t worry, I’m guilty too, but do it in moderation and NEVER give them chocolate or sugary treats, keeping it to meat, grains and small bits of fruit will help them lead a disease free life. Oh… and before I forget, “milk… does a body right” does NOT apply to ferrets, they are lactose intolerant.

While we may not be able to prevent disease in our ferret friends, we can provide them a loving, safe and clean environment, ensuring a healthy, fun and frolicking life.

Lee Dobbins write for ePet Pet Center where you can learn more about caring for all different types of pets including pet ferrets.

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