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Questions and Answers
In what year were domestic ferrets believed to have been introduced to North America by early settlers?
In what year were domestic ferrets believed to have been introduced to North America by early settlers?
What is the original purpose of domesticating ferrets?
What is the original purpose of domesticating ferrets?
What is the name of the ferret native to North America?
What is the name of the ferret native to North America?
Why are ferrets not recognized as domestic animals in some parts of the USA?
Why are ferrets not recognized as domestic animals in some parts of the USA?
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What is the typical weight range of an intact male ferret?
What is the typical weight range of an intact male ferret?
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What is the name of the natural coat color of ferrets?
What is the name of the natural coat color of ferrets?
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How much can a ferret's weight increase in the fall?
How much can a ferret's weight increase in the fall?
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What is the purpose of ferrets in biomedical research?
What is the purpose of ferrets in biomedical research?
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In which year was an approved rabies vaccine developed for ferrets?
In which year was an approved rabies vaccine developed for ferrets?
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How many color mutations are recognized in ferrets in the US?
How many color mutations are recognized in ferrets in the US?
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What is the dental formula for ferrets?
What is the dental formula for ferrets?
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What is the function of the anal glands in ferrets?
What is the function of the anal glands in ferrets?
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What is the main adaptation of the cardiovascular system in ferrets?
What is the main adaptation of the cardiovascular system in ferrets?
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How many digits do ferrets have on their feet?
How many digits do ferrets have on their feet?
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Natural breeding season for the hob
Natural breeding season for the hob
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What is the function of the sebaceous glands in ferrets?
What is the function of the sebaceous glands in ferrets?
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What is the unique feature of the ferret skeleton?
What is the unique feature of the ferret skeleton?
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GI transit time
GI transit time
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What is the location of the spleen in ferrets?
What is the location of the spleen in ferrets?
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What is the function of the adrenal glands in ferrets?
What is the function of the adrenal glands in ferrets?
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Natural breeding season for the jill
Natural breeding season for the jill
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What is the minimum size of a ferret cage?
What is the minimum size of a ferret cage?
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What is the ideal temperature range for ferrets?
What is the ideal temperature range for ferrets?
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What is the primary reason why ferrets should not be trusted with birds, rodents, and rabbits?
What is the primary reason why ferrets should not be trusted with birds, rodents, and rabbits?
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What is the most common type of reaction to vaccinations in ferrets?
What is the most common type of reaction to vaccinations in ferrets?
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What is the dietary requirement of ferrets?
What is the dietary requirement of ferrets?
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Why is it important to provide shade for ferrets in outdoor housing?
Why is it important to provide shade for ferrets in outdoor housing?
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What is the purpose of a solid-bottomed sleeping box or hammock in a ferret cage?
What is the purpose of a solid-bottomed sleeping box or hammock in a ferret cage?
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What is the primary concern when it comes to ferrets and heartworms?
What is the primary concern when it comes to ferrets and heartworms?
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What is the requirement for vaccination against Rabies Virus in ferrets?
What is the requirement for vaccination against Rabies Virus in ferrets?
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What is the primary route of administration for palatable liquids in ferrets?
What is the primary route of administration for palatable liquids in ferrets?
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What is the preferred parenteral route for most cases in ferrets?
What is the preferred parenteral route for most cases in ferrets?
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What is the recommended needle size for jugular venipuncture in ferrets?
What is the recommended needle size for jugular venipuncture in ferrets?
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What is the purpose of fluid therapy in ferrets?
What is the purpose of fluid therapy in ferrets?
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What is the consideration for blood transfusion in ferrets?
What is the consideration for blood transfusion in ferrets?
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What is the goal of sedation/anesthesia in intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?
What is the goal of sedation/anesthesia in intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?
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What is a possible problem associated with IV catheter placement in ferrets?
What is a possible problem associated with IV catheter placement in ferrets?
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What is the recommended gauge needle for intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?
What is the recommended gauge needle for intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?
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What is the purpose of using an infusion pump in fluid therapy in ferrets?
What is the purpose of using an infusion pump in fluid therapy in ferrets?
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What is the recommended method for collecting a large sample of blood in ferrets?
What is the recommended method for collecting a large sample of blood in ferrets?
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What is the primary cause of GI Foreign Body in ferrets under 2 years old?
What is the primary cause of GI Foreign Body in ferrets under 2 years old?
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What is the recommended treatment for a tooth root abscess in ferrets?
What is the recommended treatment for a tooth root abscess in ferrets?
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What is the common clinical sign of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
What is the common clinical sign of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
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What is the common cause of Dental Disease in ferrets?
What is the common cause of Dental Disease in ferrets?
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What is the common diagnosis method for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
What is the common diagnosis method for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
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What is the common complication of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
What is the common complication of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
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What is the recommended treatment for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
What is the recommended treatment for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?
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What is the common sign of severe pain in ferrets?
What is the common sign of severe pain in ferrets?
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What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal ulcers in ferrets?
What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal ulcers in ferrets?
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What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal viral disease in ferrets?
What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal viral disease in ferrets?
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What is the name of the disease caused by Coronavirus infection in ferrets?
What is the name of the disease caused by Coronavirus infection in ferrets?
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What is a possible complication of Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?
What is a possible complication of Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?
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What is the diagnosis of Rotavirus infection in ferrets?
What is the diagnosis of Rotavirus infection in ferrets?
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What is the treatment for Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?
What is the treatment for Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?
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What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?
What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?
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What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?
What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?
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What is the primary reservoir of CDV in wildlife?
What is the primary reservoir of CDV in wildlife?
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What is the transmission route of CDV in ferrets?
What is the transmission route of CDV in ferrets?
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What is a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?
What is a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?
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What is a characteristic skin lesion in CDV-infected ferrets?
What is a characteristic skin lesion in CDV-infected ferrets?
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What is a frequent complication of CDV infection in ferrets?
What is a frequent complication of CDV infection in ferrets?
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What is the mortality rate of CDV in ferrets?
What is the mortality rate of CDV in ferrets?
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How long does the virus shed in all body excretions after exposure?
How long does the virus shed in all body excretions after exposure?
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What is the incubation period of CDV in ferrets?
What is the incubation period of CDV in ferrets?
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What is the primary underlying cause of prostatic disease in ferrets?
What is the primary underlying cause of prostatic disease in ferrets?
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What is the most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections in ferrets?
What is the most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections in ferrets?
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At what age can early lesions of chronic interstitial nephritis be seen in ferrets?
At what age can early lesions of chronic interstitial nephritis be seen in ferrets?
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What is the primary symptom of urolithiasis in ferrets?
What is the primary symptom of urolithiasis in ferrets?
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What is the recommended diet for ferrets with chronic interstitial nephritis?
What is the recommended diet for ferrets with chronic interstitial nephritis?
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What is the primary complication of bacterial urinary tract infections in ferrets?
What is the primary complication of bacterial urinary tract infections in ferrets?
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What is the diagnostic tool used to visualize enlarged prostate glands or cysts in ferrets?
What is the diagnostic tool used to visualize enlarged prostate glands or cysts in ferrets?
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What is the primary treatment for prostatic disease in ferrets?
What is the primary treatment for prostatic disease in ferrets?
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What is the typical outcome for ferrets infected with CDV if left untreated?
What is the typical outcome for ferrets infected with CDV if left untreated?
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Which of the following is NOT a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?
Which of the following is NOT a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?
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What is the diagnostic value of inclusions in circulating blood cells?
What is the diagnostic value of inclusions in circulating blood cells?
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What is the purpose of Fluorescent Antibody Test (Immunohistochemistry)?
What is the purpose of Fluorescent Antibody Test (Immunohistochemistry)?
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What is the implication of false negatives in the Fluorescent Antibody Test?
What is the implication of false negatives in the Fluorescent Antibody Test?
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What is the characteristic histopathological lesion of CDV?
What is the characteristic histopathological lesion of CDV?
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Why is vaccination important in preventing CDV?
Why is vaccination important in preventing CDV?
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What is the consequence of not vaccinating ferrets against CDV?
What is the consequence of not vaccinating ferrets against CDV?
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Study Notes
Domestic Ferret
- Domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) are derived from European polecats.
- They were believed to be domesticated by Egyptians around 3000 B.C. for rabbit hunting.
- Domestic ferrets arrived in North America with early settlers in 1875.
European Polecat
- European polecats are not closely related to black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), the only native ferret species in North America.
Legal Issues
- Ferrets are not recognized as domestic animals in parts of the USA and are illegal as pets in some states and Japan.
- Some states require a permit to own and/or breed ferrets.
Anatomy & Physiology
Body Shape
- Ferrets have a long, thin, and tubular body shape with short legs.
- They have a very flexible spine and a neck almost as wide as their mandible.
- Their feet have long claws for digging.
Weight
- Intact males (hobs) weigh 1-2 kg, while intact females (jills) weigh 0.5-1 kg.
- Females can grow larger if spayed before sexual maturity.
- Ferrets experience seasonal weight changes, with a 30-40% increase in fall and a decrease in spring/summer.
Hair Coat
- The normal coat color is sable (fitch).
- There are over 30 recognized color mutations, including albino, cinnamon, silver mitt, Siamese, panda, butterscotch, and chocolate.
- Ferrets shed in spring and regrow their coat in fall.
Skin
- Ferrets have no sweat glands, only sebaceous (oil) glands.
- They have anal glands that produce a powerful odor.
Skeletal System
- Ferrets have a skull and muscles developed for strength and shearing action.
- Their vertebral formula and large cervical vertebrae provide stability when capturing and subduing prey.
- Their feet have 5 digits with non-retractable claws.
- Os penis (J-shaped) is present in males.
Digestive System
- Ferrets have 34 teeth, with a dental formula of I 3/3, C1/1, P3/3, M1/2.
- Canines have a long crown and root, making extraction difficult.
- Premolars and molars (except molar 2) have multiple roots.
- The gastrointestinal tract has a simple stomach that expands greatly and can vomit or regurgitate.
- The short small intestine (182-198 cm) and large intestine (10 cm) have a short GI transit time (3-4 hours).
- There is no cecum or ileocolic valve.
Cardiovascular System
- The heart is located between the 6th and 8th ribs.
- A single central artery (innominate artery I or brachiocephalic artery) is present instead of bilateral carotid arteries.
- This may be an adaptation for maintaining blood flow to the brain when turning the head 180 degrees.
Respiratory System
- The trachea is long, with 60-70 large diameter rings.
- The lungs have 6 lobes (4 right and 2 left).
- Ferrets have decreased central airway and pulmonary resistance, with a large respiratory reserve.
Spleen
- The spleen is located along the greater curvature of the stomach and is attached to the stomach and liver by the gastrosplenic ligament.
- It is crescent-shaped and varies in size depending on age and health.
Reproduction
- The natural breeding season for males is December to July, and for females, it is March to August.
- Females are seasonally polyestrus, with the onset of estrus coinciding with increasing day length.
- Induced ovulators (30-40 hours after copulation) have a gestation period of 41-43 days.
- If bred but not pregnant, females can experience pseudopregnancy lasting 40-42 days.
- If not bred, around 50% of females will remain in estrus, leading to bone marrow toxicity due to elevated estrogen levels.
Ferret Behavior and Husbandry
- Ferrets are active and inquisitive animals that are social but have no well-defined social structure.
- Estrus females and intact males may fight, but they can get along with dogs and cats.
- However, they should not be trusted with birds, rodents, or rabbits.
- Ferrets are relatively quiet, making low-pitched mumbling, chuckling (dooking), hissing, and screaming sounds.
- They are capable of using a litter box and exhibit latrining behavior.
Ferret Proofing
- Seal all holes and openings wider than 1 inch to prevent escape and injury.
- Close cabinets and dishwasher to prevent access to hazardous items.
- Remove access to soft rubber and plastic items to prevent ingestion and GI obstruction.
Housing
- Ferrets require a minimum cage size of 24” x 24” x 18” with adequate ventilation (wire cages are best).
- The cage should provide vertical space and be at least "2 ferrets" long and deep.
- Complete shelves, solid-bottomed sleeping box or hammock, and a litter box are essential.
Outdoor Housing
- Ferrets cannot tolerate temperatures above 90°F and require shade to prevent hyperthermia and heat prostration.
- Provide a heat source in temperatures less than 20°F.
- Protect ferrets from predators and provide heartworm preventative measures.
Vaccines
- Rabies Virus vaccination is required annually, using a vaccine approved for ferrets.
- Canine Distemper Virus vaccination is also required annually, but cannot use the same vaccine used in dogs.
- Ferrets are not susceptible to Feline Panleukopenia Virus or Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis.
Vaccine Reactions
- Vaccine reactions are common in ferrets and occur within an hour after vaccination.
- Clinical signs of anaphylaxis include generalized hyperemia, ptyalism, vomiting, and piloerection of the hair on the body and tail.
Nutrition
- Ferrets are strict carnivores and require a diet rich in protein and fat.
Ferret Restraint
- Simple hold involves holding the ferret by scruffing the nape of the neck
- Scruffing the neck and holding around the waist is an alternative method
- Ferrets may object to mildly invasive procedures and can bite if necessary
Clinical Techniques
- Ultrasound, ear swab, and nail trim are common procedures
- Head control and scruffing are essential techniques for ferret restrains
Drug Therapy
- IV administration is recommended for very ill animals
- IM administration is a good route, but has limited muscle mass
- SC administration is the preferred parenteral route in most cases
- PO administration is suitable for palatable liquids, but difficult for non-palatable liquids and pills
Giving Oral Medications
- Oral medications can be challenging to administer
Venipuncture
- Large sample sites include the jugular vein, cranial vena cava, and ventral tail artery
- Smaller sample sites include the lateral saphenous vein and cephalic vein
- Gauge sizes and sample volumes vary depending on the site
Intravenous Catheter
- Lateral saphenous and cephalic veins are suitable for catheter placement
- Sedation or anesthesia is recommended for catheter placement
- Possible complications include overhydration, entanglement, and chewing the line
Fluid Therapy
- Routes of administration include SC and IV
- SC administration involves dividing the calculated volume into 2-3 sessions throughout the day
- IV administration requires an infusion pump and a pediatric drip set
Blood Transfusion
- Consider blood transfusion if the PCV is 15 or less
- Ferrets may tolerate a PCV of 12% without transfusion if anemia is chronic
- There are no detectable blood groups in ferrets
- The best donor is a large male ferret, which can safely donate 6-10 ml of blood
Ferret Diseases
Gastrointestinal Diseases
- Dental Disease:
- Fractured Canine Teeth: common, can be smoothed off with Dremel tool if not into the pulp cavity, otherwise requires root canal or extraction
- Dental Calculus (tartar) build-up: leads to Gingivitis & Periodontitis, common in ferrets > 1 yr old, especially if fed soft or canned foods
- Tooth Root Abscess: occasional, check for chronic tearing, may require anesthesia and probing
- GI Foreign Body (GI FB):
- Common, especially in ferrets < 2 yrs old, often ingested rubber or other objects
- Clinical Signs: variable, acute or chronic, may have depression, anorexia, dehydration, absence of stools, nausea, vomiting, and GI bleeding
- Diagnosis: palpation of gas and fluid in stomach and/or intestines, may require barium series or exploratory surgery
- Treatment: Surgery, supportive care with fluids and antibiotics
- Gastroenteritis / GI Ulcers:
- Causes: FB/trichobezoar, Helicobacter mustelae infection, Viral, Ulcerogenic drugs, GI neoplasia, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Psychologic stress
- Clinical Signs: ptyalism, bruxism, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss
- Gastritis: significant cause of morbidity and mortality in ferrets
Hematopoietic Diseases
- Aplastic Anemia: secondary to hyperestrogenism
- Splenomegaly
- Lymphosarcoma
Urogenital Diseases
- Chronic Interstitial Nephritis: common, especially in older ferrets
- Urinary Tract Infection / Pyelonephritis: common in females
- Dysuria & Urethral Obstruction: secondary to Prostatic Enlargement & Cysts, common in males
- Urolithiasis (Renal / Bladder Stones): uncommon
Viral Diseases
- Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) = Coronavirus infection = “Green Slime Disease”:
- Causes: Coronavirus, high morbidity and mortality in kits 2-6 wks old
- Clinical Signs: watery, dark green, foul-smelling diarrhea, anorexia, vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, death
- Diagnosis: culture of feces during the first 3 days after seeing green diarrhea
- Treatment: supportive care with fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics
- Ferret Kit Disease = Rotavirus infection:
- Causes: Rotavirus, high morbidity and mortality in kits 2-6 wks old
- Clinical Signs: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, weight loss, dehydration
- Diagnosis: Electron Microscopy (EM), serology is unreliable
- Treatment: supportive care, treat secondary bacterial infections
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV):
- Causes: CDV, accelerated syndrome in ferrets with clinical signs similar to those in dogs
- Transmission: aerosols, contact with ocular or nasal discharge, urine, feces, saliva, skin lesions, or contaminated fomites
- Clinical Signs: anorexia, depression, pyrexia, mucopurulent oculonasal discharge, papular rash, skin hyperkeratosis, dermatitis
- Diagnosis: characteristic clinical signs, fluorescent antibody test, immunohistochemistry, histopathology
- Treatment: not recommended, usually fatal
- Prevention: vaccination
Other Diseases
- Influenza Virus:
- Family Orthomyxoviridae
- Ferrets susceptible to human influenza
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Description
Learn about the natural history of domestic ferrets, including their origin, domestication, and various purposes. Discover how ferrets have been used throughout history.