Some ferret breeding facilities spay or neuter their ferrets before putting them up for sale. There are a number of reasons why a ferret should be “fixed.” With female ferrets, spaying helps prevent mammary cancer, uterine infections, uterine cancer, ovarian cysts. With males, prostate cancer and testicular cancer can be avoided. Female ferrets can become […]
Ferret Articles
Check Your Ferret for Deafness
Deafness in ferrets may be difficult to diagnose. They normally have short attention spans and because they can be stubborn, may not wish to respond to you. But your ferret should be evaluated for deafness for safety’s sake. If an emergency arises, you need to get your ferret’s attention to save him/her from disaster. As […]
FDA Approved Treatment for ACD in Ferrets
The FDA has indexed deslorelin acetate for treatment of adrenal gland disease in ferrets. Indexing means that now veterinarians only have to write a prescription to obtain the deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin F – brand name). Previously vets had to go through a complicated procedure to obtain the drug. Suprelorin F is manufactured in Australia and […]
Feeding Your Ferret
Ferrets are carnivores and don’t get any nutritional benefits from eating plants. Their diet must be high in animal protein, high in fat, and low in fiber. Ferrets have a short digestive system and a quick metabolism. Food should always be available to them. Obesity is not a concern, since ferrets only eat as much […]
Pet Ferrets and Insulinomas
Insulinomas are tumors of insulin producing cells in the pancreas. They are very common in pet ferrets and are usually found around ages 4-6. Insulinomas usually occur when other diseases are present such as lymphomas, cardiomyopathy, etc. The tumors produce excessive amounts of insulin causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Symptoms can be sudden or gradually […]
Cancer in Ferrets
Lymphosarcoma is a common cancer in ferrets. Signs can be lethargy and loss of appetite. Diagnosis is difficult because signs of cancer often don’t appear until the disease is well-advanced. If you suspect your ferret is ill, an immediate trip to the veterinarian is necessary. Your vet will administer several tests such as a complete […]
Understanding Your Ferret
As with all animals, ferrets speak volumes with their bodies as well as their voices. Learning to read your ferret’s language makes for a happier, closer relationship. When your ferret is hungry or thirsty, s/he will tell you by playing with the food or water bowl. If there is food remaining in the bowl, s/he […]