Common Ferret Diseases and Conditions

Adrenal Disease

One of the most common conditions to occur in ferrets is adrenal disease. Growths or enlargement of the adrenal gland typically requires surgery. External signs are a loss of hair, usually starting at the tail and working forward. Sometimes the back of the neck loses hair. In some cases, the vulva of females becomes enlarged. Left untreated, it is fatal. Prospects for recovery when caught early are very good, though.

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ADV

Aleutian Disease Virus is a parvovirus that can infect ferrets and their cousin species, such as minks. It produces excessive and rapid weight loss. There's no cure and it can be fatal, though in many cases it produces symptoms that are treatable.

Since it can be transmitted through urine and feces, it's possible for one ferret who is a carrier but not affected to infect others. Tests can show whether an animal has the virus and it's helpful to have one done before bringing a new ferret into an existing 'family'. CEP or CIEP (Counter Immune ElectroPhoresis) is the most common test.

ECE

Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis, also known as Green Slime Disease, is an inflammation of the mucous membranes. It produces green, slimy, foul smelling feces during diarrhea (hence the name). Yes, all feces smell, but ferrets can get greenish diarrhea for a number of reasons. These are distinctive. The causes are not entirely understood.

It may last only a week or two and go away untreated. But in about 20% of cases it can become more serious, leading to wasting away. In either case, owners should seek treatment as early as possible. Only known for a little over 10 years, it's still under intensive research. Treatments vary, such as the use of slippery elm bark powder, but should be applied by a vet.

Ear Problems

Keeping your ferret's ears clean is important, but simple. Wax can build up, or they can get ear mites and other conditions.

A weak solution of ear cleaner helps loosen wax, then (like a dog) they will shake their heads vigorously expelling the wax.

Treating ear mites requires only a little ear cleaner, then Tresaderm.

The procedure should be repeated every day for at least a week. Careful examination with a flashlight and magnifying glass can help reveal any substance that might still be in the ear. A ferret's ear canal is L-shaped, so piercing the ear drum isn't a common problem. But they are delicate, so take care.

Cancers

Older ferrets, around 4 years or more (like other aging mammals) are prone to develop tumors and other cancers. Some of these are treatable by surgery, others eventually take the life of the ferret. But ferrets are no more prone to cancer at a young age than a dog, cat or human.

Still, since they are very curious and exploratory, it's helpful to ensure they don't come into contact with common household items that can encourage cancers. Benzene and other organic solvents are known to increase the risk. Be sure to ferret-proof your house as a precaution.

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Caring For Your Ferret

Ferrets require more care than cats or dogs. Though they sleep about 18 hours per day, when they're awake they're very active. They're also extremely curious and love to explore. Unless they're always caged, that makes them somewhat accident prone. But, if they're always caged, they may not get the proper stimulus and exercise, representing the other side of the dilemma.

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Beyond basic safety, there are regular actions that any caring ferret owner will want to take to ensure their companion is kept in optimal mental and physical health. Ferrets live on average between 6-8 years and much of that time they will need attention and checkups.

The most basic care starts with a vet visit for a general exam and vaccinations. Rabies and canine distemper are the two most common diseases vaccines prevent, but ask your vet about others that may be a concern in your area. At the same time, the vet will check for lumps (evidence of possible insulinomas and other tumors), dental issues, possible adrenal problems and other ferret-specific conditions.

Ferrets have abilities that can easily lead them into trouble. They can find their way into spaces that even a small cat wouldn't consider going. Ferret-proofing the house against ingress behind the stove, getting inside the couch, falling off the second floor landing and other areas is essential.

Bathing twice a year is a good idea, both to reduce odors and keep the skin healthy. But beware of removing essential oils. Only use a shampoo designed for ferrets. Regularly look for any skin lesions or sores. Ferrets have sharp claws and, like dogs, can produce hot spots that lead to pain and possible infection.

Ear cleaning should be performed at least once per month. Like dogs, ferrets can easily build up wax that leads to yeast and other problems. A simple ear cleaning solution injected with a plastic syringe, followed by gentle massage for about 20 seconds, will do the trick. The ferret will shake his or her head vigorously and expel the softened wax. Careful follow up with a Q-tip is a good idea.

Regular examination of both ends of your ferret may not be pleasant, but it's best for your pet.

They often burrow into litter box material that, if not the proper kind (and sometimes even then), can cause nasal blockage. That can lead to upper respiratory problems, irritation of the membranes or other conditions.

Also, make sure they have no swelling of the vulva (evidence of disease) or a prolapsed rectum. The latter can result from inadequate water in the diet or a bacterial infection that results in straining. Treatment with an antibiotic, such as Clavamox or Baytril may be called for.

Regular activity outside the cage helps keep your ferret mentally stimulated and works all those muscles that some cages don't allow. Take care they don't get outside off a leash, though, unless the area is enclosed and free of holes. Ferrets naturally seek out burrows and small spaces to explore. But they are much better at getting in than getting out.

They also don't tolerate high heat or extreme cold well. Above 80