Common Diseases in Ferrets

Ferrets are some of the cutest animals on the planet. They're fun and curious, and will keep you entertained on a daily basis. Unfortunately, ferrets are also prone to certain diseases, which can be serious and even fatal. We'd like to share some helpful information about two common diseases found in ferrets, so that you can watch for the symptoms and get the disease treated before it's too late.

Adrenal Disease

The adrenal glands are a major part of the endocrine system and have been a site for cancer in ferrets for many years. These glands are prone to disease and may increase to the point where they put pressure on the kidneys or the vena cava. They can also produce an excessive amount of androgens (sex hormones).

This overproduction of sex hormones results in several clinical signs, including:

• Hair loss
• Increased body odor
• Dry, brittle hair coat
• Excessive itchy skin
• In spayed females: enlargement of vulva, vaginitis, and stump pyometra (infection in uterus)
• In neutered males: mounting cage mates, aggression to other males, and straining to urinate

Treatment for adrenal disease includes surgery to remove a portion or all of the adrenal gland, hormone injections, and hormone implant treatments.

Splenomegaly (Enlarged Spleen)

There are several conditions that can cause splenomegaly, including extramedullary hematopoiesis (the accumulation of a massive number of developing red and white blood cells), neoplasia (tumor), infections, cardiomyopathy (cardiac muscle disease), hypersplenism (enlarged spleen with excessive amount of blood cells), and heart disease.

What does the spleen do?

One of the primary functions of a spleen is filtering blood, so it has a large blood supply. It also stores blood, and in ferrets, manufactures blood cells.

Diagnosis

Usually palpation upon an examination is the easiest and most effective way to diagnose. We have to be careful during palpation, because some diseases cause the spleen to be very delicate and splenic rupture is possible. Radiographs are also very helpful to define size and borders of the spleen and to evaluate other abnormalities associated with splenomegaly, such enlarged liver or heart. Biopsy of the spleen might be needed in some cases.

Treatment of splenomegaly depends on the cause. If the spleen becomes too large, surgical removal may be necessary. Ferrets affected may need blood transfusions, antibiotics (secondary infection), and supportive care including vitamin/mineral supplementation, herbal/homeopathic remedies, IV fluids, and syringe feedings.

Although enlarged spleens are common in ferrets and usually don't require treatment, it's always a good idea for a veterinarian to check for splenomegaly.

If you have any questions about your ferret, or if it appears to have symptoms of disease, please give us a call.