If you have affection with ferrets be our companion, because we dig into a vital subject that every ferret keeper should understand in today’s blog: ferret illnesses. Though these endearing and cheeky animals bring us much delight but are also prone to certain health problems. However, we can safeguard the health and happiness of our furry pets by being aware of common ferret ailments, their symptoms, and treatment options. So, we will feel glad, if join us as investigating ferret health and arming you with the knowledge to spot early sickness symptoms and provide your cherished pets with the best treatment possible. Let’s go off on this adventure together!
Common health issues in the ferrets
Understanding and resolving common health issues is essential for preserving your furry friend’s well-being, whether you’re a first-time ferret owner or a seasoned lover. So, it is essential to know about their diseases and diagnosis to offer them quick treatment when they require. To make your task easy, go through the following passages because we are going to discuss ferret’s medical illnesses.
How common is it for ferrets to get sick?
Ferrets get sick like other animals, but they have an interesting fact that owners sometimes need to see if they are sick.
Adrenal diseases
One of the most common ferrets’ adrenal illness may impact you and your animal companion. This problem initiates when your ferret’s adrenal glands, next to its kidneys, generate too many sex hormones. Further, your ferret’s behavior and look may therefore alter. For example, you could notice hair loss, especially on their tail and behind.
Additional symptoms include enlarged belly and itch. A swelling vulva might be noticeable in female ferrets, whereas an enlarged prostate gland may appear in male ferrets. Lastly, When you find animal with an adrenal illness, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian since treatments can help them live better, such as surgery or hormone therapy.
Aleutian disease
Other than adrenal disease, a highly infectious viral virus that infects ferrets and minks is identified as an Aleutian disease, often referred to as Aleutian mink disease or ADV. Parvovirus is the reason that brings it on and can bring these animals serious health problems and even death. Therefore, you must be aware of the dangers posed by Aleutian illness if you possess ferrets.
In this disease, the body fluids may spread the virus which can survive for a long time, latent on your shoes or clothing. Next thing after symptoms is the precaution. So, the infected animals should not be transported to prevent the disease from spreading to further ferrets and minks. The final way to keep you pet fine from Aleutian sickness is by taking essential measures, such as scheduling routine medical exams and practicing proper cleanliness.
Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis
Parvovirus cause Aleutian disease while coronavirus may be the cause of this digestive illness in ferrets. Further, it results in intestinal lining irritation, which hinders the absorption of food and fluids. ECE may damage the liver and become fatal if it is not addressed. Lethargy, tiredness, and significant weight loss are typical symptoms, such as mucous, vivid green or yellow diarrhea.
How often do ferrets poop?
Ferret has a small digestive intact that results in pooping after every three to four hours. If your animals are fast feeding, it increases the stooling ratio.
Rabies
After listening the word rabies dog comes to our mind because this illness is often affiliated with this specific animal. Most of us do not know that ferrets are also in severe medical danger from rabies. You should be aware that this viral illness can be passed from animals to people, making it essential to safeguard your pet. Seek medical attention immediately if your ferret behaves strangely, such as being aggressive, drooling excessively, or having trouble swallowing.
When we talk about care and precautions from rabies, it is crucial to vaccinate your ferret against rabies to avoid infection. Additionally, you ought to keep your ferret inside or in a secure, monitored area and stay away from wild creatures. Remember that rabies may be dangerous for you and your ferret, but early identification and appropriate preventative methods can protect both of you.
Giardiasis
Ferrets that have giardiasis may have serious health issues, while the tiny creature Giardia is the parasite that causes it. You could notice signs of giardiasis in your ferret, including diarrhea, weight loss, and a reduced appetite. It is essential to get veterinary treatment to identify and treat the illness as soon as possible.
To eliminate the parasite, your veterinarian could advise performing stool tests and recommending treatments. Moreover, to avoid reinfection, excellent hygiene habits and a clean living space for your ferret are as important to treatment. Remember that your ferret can recover from giardiasis and have a healthy life if you act quickly and heed your doctor’s recommendations.
Is there any treatment to cure ferrets from giardiasis?
Yes, giardiasis is have proper treatment, but never consider treating ferrets on your own. Owners should prefer to visit the vet. First, he will diagnose and then prescribe the medication. Treating animals on your own may cause problems for them.
Respiratory Issues in Ferrets
Like humans and other animals, ferrets are prone to experience a variety of respiratory problems that show different symptoms. A respiratory issue may come into sightings if you observe your ferret acting strangely or coughing regularly. Sneezing, chattering breath, throat irritation, and coughing up mucus occasionally with blood traces indicate respiratory problems.
If you’re worried, you should take your pet to the vet for a complete checkup to rule out any serious disorders that might be the source of the cough.
Ferrets and Influenza
In the previous passage, we discussed respiratory tract infections and influenza is not a exception. Typically, the infection starts with a fever and progresses to upper respiratory sickness symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, thick nasal discharge, and watery eyes. In addition, the ferrets condition may become sluggish, avoid food, and show gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Are ferrets prone to cold?
Ferrets are a species that does not endure the heat very well and prefers colder temperatures. Therefore, consider putting your ferrets in a colder spot to warm your indoor environment.
Dental Health and Ferret Infections:
We have already discussed in our blogs that ferrets are famous for their chewing habits. Particularly if fed a diet high in soft meats, ferrets can develop tooth disease. Therefore, once your ferret reaches the age of three years old, consider regular checking its teeth for indications of an infection, bad breath, or broken teeth. In addition, a veterinarian should be consulted with any dental-related issues since it is essential to an animal’s general health.
How to treat dental issues?
Ferrets are prone to dental issues because of their chewing habit. So, vets have many options for their treatment, such as removing teeth, prescribing antibiotics, or even surgery, depending on the severity level.
Ringworms
Ferrets may experience serious medical issues due to ringworm. Ringworms on the ferret’s skin can develop a fungal infection that results in circular regions of hair loss, redness, and itching. If you find your animals with such indications, take it to vet as soon as you possible, so they may be properly diagnosed and treated.
No problem if having ample experience in keeping animals, do not offer any treatment on your own. Share your load with any medical expert because he may suggest topical and antifungal drugs to treat the infection. To stop the fungus from spreading, carefully clean your ferret’s surroundings and wash their bedding. Lastly, it is a suggestion to remember that early treatment and adherence to your veterinarian’s recommendations can aid your ferret’s recovery from ringworm.
Can a ferret with ringworm affect its handler?
Like other animals, ferrets also carry bacteria and viruses that transmit from one body to another. Likewise, ferrets also carry ringworm fungus, which affects the owners.
Last opinion
Regarding the health level of ferrets, they are healthy animals according to their size. On the other hand, all the living organisms in the world suffer from different medical issues. Moreover, various reasons have been involved in causing illness, and ferrets are no exception. For example, ferrets are prone to many diseases like rabies, respiratory issues, gastric issues, etc. In contrast, if living with them, they also make ill to their handlers and animals. So, taking precautions while feeding or playing with them is better.
