|
|
Diseases Most Common in
Ferrets
|
Ferrets are susceptible to a variety of diseases throughout their lives.
However, three common illnesses afflict a large majority of ferret
families. Unfortunately, many individual ferrets develop more than one
or even all three of these diseases. Thankfully, there are simple
 ways
to help keep your ferret healthy and potentially stave off these
illnesses.
Three common ferret illnesses:
The three most
common ferret diseases are:
- Adrenal
disease (adrenal gland tumor)
- Insulinoma
(cancer of the pancreas)
- Lymphoma
(cancer of the white blood cells)
How
well a ferret does after being diagnosed with one of these illnesses
depends, in part, on your ability to identify symptoms and consult your
veterinarian for treatment options. Although there are no proven methods
to cure these diseases, ferret owners have found that keeping their
ferrets healthy is a must. Remember, the healthier your ferret is -
through
nutrition,
healthcare,
sanitation,
stress relief, and
interaction - the
healthier his quality of life. The easy part of caring for your ferret
is that his care rests in your capable hands. The bonus is that taking
good care of your ferret benefits more than just his health.
|
|
Knowing how
to identify each common ferret illness can help prolong your ferret's
life significantly, if not save it. If you have not yet familiarized
yourself with these three diseases, read up on them in our
article section.
If you think your ferret may have one of these diseases, consult your
veterinarian immediately. If you don't know of an experienced ferret
veterinarian, check out this comprehensive
ferret veterinarian guide,
listed by state and zip code.
|
|
Also, there are indications that altering your
ferret may help prevent certain illnesses. As such, be sure to neuter or
spay your ferret around 6 months of age. It is vital that you spay your
female ferret before her first heat since a ferret in estrus for over
three to four weeks can develop a severe, life-threatening anemia. |
|
In addition, diets high in sugar are not
suitable for ferrets. In fact, improper diets may contribute to and will
exacerbate many medical conditions, such as Insulinoma. Ensure your
ferret gets
treats that are
low in sugar, such as
Chicken or Bacon Bandits,
in addition to a suitable
diet. |
|
|
|
|
|
As with every kind of training, be
patient and reward your ferret for his good behavior. You'll have a
litter trained free roam ferret in no time!
For the latest advice, consult your
Veterinarian!
|
Click
on Link for:
Flea Control & Prevention!
|
|
