Q: Ferrets are fun and mischievous pets. What are their unique health problems?
A: Virtually all of the ferrets that are adopted in the U.S. come from a single breeder, Marshall Farms. They are spayed or neutered, and descented at a young age prior to adoption. This early neutering can later predispose them to adrenal gland stimulation.
Increased adrenal hormone production can lead to fur loss over the entire trunk of the body, itching, and muscle atrophy. Currently, there is a slow release hormonal implant, called Deslorelin, that blocks the excess hormone production from the adrenal glands to help control this problem.
Ferrets will eat a wide range of foreign materials including ear plugs that can lead to intestinal obstructions. They are highly susceptible to canine distemper virus. Therefore, they need to be vaccinated for that disease.
Another common disease is called an insulinoma, which is a tumor of the pancreas. The increased insulin production leads to a low blood sugar. They can show signs of weakness, are a bit wobbly, and can sometimes have seizures. This occurs because the pancreas continues to produce insulin unregulated. There are both surgical and medical treatments.
Ferret life expectancy is five to eight years of age. Ferrets are happy, clownlike, and unique pets.
If you have any questions, you can always contact Dr. Lavac at 310-828-4587.