Common Health Issues in Ferrets and How to Prevent Them
Ferrets might behave in ways that convey a certain invincibility, but the fact is they are prone to numerous health conditions that slow them down and hinder overall wellness. Being able to recognize common health issues in ferrets can lead owners to seek help early on, potentially influencing a positive and lasting outcome. We can also help owners of ferrets provide excellent care at home to prevent certain common health issues.
Every Ferret Is Unique
Unfortunately, our ferret friends are susceptible to numerous conditions. Some can be thwarted with vigilant care, others develop in spite of excellent attention.
To give a pet ferret every possible chance at optimal wellness, they need a top-tier diet of equal amounts of fat and protein, a clean habitat, and opportunities to play in a secure space. On top of extra doses of love and affection, routine veterinary care can support vitality and longevity.
External Health Issues
Factors from a ferret’s husbandry, diet, or environment can lead to numerous external health problems, including:
- Gastrointestinal blockages or obstructions can be easily caused by ingested toys, household objects, or even from hairballs. Keep an eye out for lethargy, vomiting/diarrhea, and an overall loss of interest in eating/drinking.
- Traumatic injuries from accidental falls, entrapment, fights with other animals, and more can lead to serious conditions. Any signs of traumatic injury (bleeding, mobility or balance changes, swelling, different sized pupils) should be addressed immediately by your veterinarian.
- Dental disease can lead to painful abscesses, broken teeth, inflammation, eating difficulties, and systemic illness. If you notice bad breath, pawing at the mouth, drooling, and dropping food, it’s time to address this external health condition.
Preventing Ferret Disease
Some ferret breeding practices have resulted in certain inherited health conditions. Of the many possible internal diseases that face today’s pet ferrets, these are the most common:
- Adrenal gland disease, or hyperadrenocorticism, which occurs when the adrenal glands produce excessive hormones. Common side effects of this disease range from hair loss, itching, aggression, and swelling.
- Insulinomas are both malignant and non-cancerous tumors that cause the body to produce too much insulin. Watch out for weight loss, weakness, staring into space, tics or tremors, and seizures.
- Lymphomas are cancerous tumors on the lymph nodes, liver, bone marrow, spleen, skin, and digestive tract. Tumors may or may not be visible, and can happen at any age. Classic signs of lymphoma include swelling of the abdomen, coughing, lethargy, bloody stools, and weight loss.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy enlarges and weakens the heart. It may be inherited or linked to poor diet. Labored breathing, weakness, and coughing warrant a trip to the vet.
Daily Check-In
Whether you’re concerned about a ferret’s genetics or their exposure to various external circumstances, if there is ever any doubt about their health and well-being please call us at (817) 953-8560. Our team at Texas Avian and Exotic Hospital is always here to help.