Ferrets: Domestication and Purpose
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Questions and Answers

In what year were domestic ferrets believed to have been introduced to North America by early settlers?

  • 1875 (correct)
  • 1990
  • 3000 B.C.
  • 1920
  • What is the original purpose of domesticating ferrets?

  • Hunting and vermin control
  • Running cables
  • Biomedical research or pet
  • All of the above (correct)
  • What is the name of the ferret native to North America?

  • European polecat
  • American mink
  • Domestic ferret
  • Black-footed ferret (correct)
  • Why are ferrets not recognized as domestic animals in some parts of the USA?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical weight range of an intact male ferret?

    <p>1 to 2 kg</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the natural coat color of ferrets?

    <p>Sable</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much can a ferret's weight increase in the fall?

    <p>30-40%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of ferrets in biomedical research?

    <p>Testing new medicines and treatments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which year was an approved rabies vaccine developed for ferrets?

    <p>1990</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many color mutations are recognized in ferrets in the US?

    <p>over 30</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the dental formula for ferrets?

    <p>I3/3, C1/1, P3/3, M1/2</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the anal glands in ferrets?

    <p>Scent marking and defense</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main adaptation of the cardiovascular system in ferrets?

    <p>A single central artery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many digits do ferrets have on their feet?

    <p>5</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Natural breeding season for the hob

    <p>December - July</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the sebaceous glands in ferrets?

    <p>To produce oil</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the unique feature of the ferret skeleton?

    <p>Developed head musculature for strength and shearing action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    GI transit time

    <p>3-4 hours</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the location of the spleen in ferrets?

    <p>Along the greater curvature of the stomach</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the adrenal glands in ferrets?

    <p>To produce hormones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Natural breeding season for the jill

    <p>March - August</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum size of a ferret cage?

    <p>24” x 24” x 18”</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the ideal temperature range for ferrets?

    <p>40-60 F</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why ferrets should not be trusted with birds, rodents, and rabbits?

    <p>They may eat them</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most common type of reaction to vaccinations in ferrets?

    <p>Anaphylactoid reaction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the dietary requirement of ferrets?

    <p>Carnivorous</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to provide shade for ferrets in outdoor housing?

    <p>To prevent heat prostration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of a solid-bottomed sleeping box or hammock in a ferret cage?

    <p>To provide a comfortable place to sleep</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern when it comes to ferrets and heartworms?

    <p>They are prone to heartworms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the requirement for vaccination against Rabies Virus in ferrets?

    <p>Annual vaccination is required</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary route of administration for palatable liquids in ferrets?

    <p>PO</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the preferred parenteral route for most cases in ferrets?

    <p>SC</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended needle size for jugular venipuncture in ferrets?

    <p>22-25 GA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of fluid therapy in ferrets?

    <p>To treat dehydration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consideration for blood transfusion in ferrets?

    <p>PCV is 15 or less</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the goal of sedation/anesthesia in intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?

    <p>To facilitate catheter placement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible problem associated with IV catheter placement in ferrets?

    <p>Overhydration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended gauge needle for intravenous catheter placement in ferrets?

    <p>20-22 GA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of using an infusion pump in fluid therapy in ferrets?

    <p>To deliver fluids at a controlled rate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended method for collecting a large sample of blood in ferrets?

    <p>Jugular venipuncture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of GI Foreign Body in ferrets under 2 years old?

    <p>Ingestion of rubber or other foreign materials</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended treatment for a tooth root abscess in ferrets?

    <p>Root canal or extraction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common clinical sign of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?

    <p>Acute onset of depression, anorexia, and dehydration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common cause of Dental Disease in ferrets?

    <p>Feeding soft or canned foods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common diagnosis method for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?

    <p>Palpation of the abdomen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common complication of GI Foreign Body in ferrets?

    <p>GI ulceration and bleeding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended treatment for GI Foreign Body in ferrets?

    <p>Surgical intervention</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common sign of severe pain in ferrets?

    <p>Bushed Tail (piloerection)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal ulcers in ferrets?

    <p>Helicobacter mustelae infection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal viral disease in ferrets?

    <p>Diarrhea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the disease caused by Coronavirus infection in ferrets?

    <p>Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible complication of Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the diagnosis of Rotavirus infection in ferrets?

    <p>Electron Microscopy (EM)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the treatment for Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE) in ferrets?

    <p>Supportive care with fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a clinical sign of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible cause of gastrointestinal disease in ferrets?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reservoir of CDV in wildlife?

    <p>Raccoons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the transmission route of CDV in ferrets?

    <p>Inhalation of aerosols and direct contact</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?

    <p>Mucopurulent oculonasal discharge with photophobia and blepharospasm</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic skin lesion in CDV-infected ferrets?

    <p>Papular rash with swelling then crusting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a frequent complication of CDV infection in ferrets?

    <p>Secondary bacterial infections</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the mortality rate of CDV in ferrets?

    <p>Almost 100%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long does the virus shed in all body excretions after exposure?

    <p>3-6 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the incubation period of CDV in ferrets?

    <p>Unknown</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary underlying cause of prostatic disease in ferrets?

    <p>Adrenal disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections in ferrets?

    <p>E. coli</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what age can early lesions of chronic interstitial nephritis be seen in ferrets?

    <p>2 years old</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary symptom of urolithiasis in ferrets?

    <p>Dysuria</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended diet for ferrets with chronic interstitial nephritis?

    <p>Low-protein diet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary complication of bacterial urinary tract infections in ferrets?

    <p>Pyelonephritis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the diagnostic tool used to visualize enlarged prostate glands or cysts in ferrets?

    <p>Radiography</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary treatment for prostatic disease in ferrets?

    <p>Treat adrenal disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical outcome for ferrets infected with CDV if left untreated?

    <p>Death or euthanasia within 16 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common clinical sign of CDV in ferrets?

    <p>Hyperventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the diagnostic value of inclusions in circulating blood cells?

    <p>It indicates early stages of CDV</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of Fluorescent Antibody Test (Immunohistochemistry)?

    <p>To diagnose CDV in ferrets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the implication of false negatives in the Fluorescent Antibody Test?

    <p>The test may give false negatives in early stages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the characteristic histopathological lesion of CDV?

    <p>Acidophilic inclusion bodies in epithelial cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is vaccination important in preventing CDV?

    <p>To prevent CDV in ferrets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of not vaccinating ferrets against CDV?

    <p>Ferrets will become a source of infection for others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    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.
    • 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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