Noninfectious diseases of ferrets include those that are not caused by viruses, bacteria, or other infectious agents. Some of the more commonly seen noninfectious diseases include gastric foreign bodies, dilated cardiomyopathy, and kidney disease.
Foreign Objects in the Stomach
Because of their inquisitive nature, ferrets often swallow foreign objects that can become lodged in the stomach or
Two hormonal (endocrine) disorders, insulinomas and hyperadrenocorticism, are common in ferrets.
Insulinomas
An insulinoma is a tumor of the pancreas. These tumors are very common in ferrets older than 3 years of age. Insulinomas produce more insulin than the body needs. The elevated insulin levels result in low levels of blood sugar (hypoglycemia)—a condition that is the opposite of diabetes
Unfortunately, ferrets are very prone to a variety of cancers. In fact, most pet ferrets will have some sort of tumor or cancer during their lifetime.
Mast Cell Tumor
Cutaneous mast cell tumors are probably the most common skin tumors in ferrets, often seen in animals over 3 years of age. These tumors can appear anywhere on the body but typically affect the trunk and neck. The tumor appears a
Ferrets can be infected by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Some of these can also infect other types of pets and people.
Bacterial Diseases
Helicobacter mustelae is found in the stomach and in the small intestines of most, if not all, ferrets after weaning. It can cause chronic, persistent inflammation of the stomach and can cause ulcers
Ferrets reach sexual maturity between 4 and 8 months of age. Sexual maturity occurs in the first spring after birth. The vast majority of ferrets are spayed or neutered before 6 weeks of age. This is primarily because females come into heat when they reach sexual maturity and will remain in heat unless bred.
Male ferrets that have not been neutered have a strong, musky smell when they come into season, which happens twice yearly. Th
Whenever a ferret appears to be lethargic or there is a sudden change in its behavior, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended ( see Table: When to See a Veterinarian). Ferrets may hide signs of illness or discomfort until the illness is advanced, so a sick ferret can rapidly become critically ill.
Table
When to See a Veterinarian
It may be difficult to find a veterinarian with experience treating ferrets. Check with ferret clubs, local telephone directories, and online sources such as your state veterinary medical association for a recommendation. Do this before buying a ferret or, if you move, before an illness occurs. A yearly examination and vaccinations are recommended for pet ferrets; this is an excellent opportunity to establish a relationship with a veterinarian. Make sure the veterina
Ferrets do not require much space, making them suitable for apartments and other small living spaces. However, appropriate housing must be provided for times when ferrets are alone or unsupervised. Ferrets also require a high-quality diet, good hygiene, and appropriate levels of exercise and attention to remain healthy.
Housing
A wire cage at least 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep by 2 feet high is sufficient t
Ferrets can quickly get into dangerous situations. They are intensely curious, nearly fearless, highly persistent, and have the ability to squeeze into very small openings. These traits may lead to serious injury or death. Ferrets also like to chew on soft or plastic objects such as foam, pencil erasers, rubber bands, buttons, and other objects commonly found around the home. These objects can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage. An intestinal blockage
Physically, ferrets are similar to cats. The male ferret, called a hob, can weigh up to 4 lb (2 kg). The female, known as a jill, can weigh up to 2.5 lb (1.2 kg). Ferrets come in a range of colors, but common variations include white with pink eyes, sable, cinnamon, and chocolate. White patches on the throat or toes are common. A ferret’s coat will change color and density with the season; it will darken and thicken in winter, then lighten and shed in summer. Ferrets generally re