Ferrets

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Ferrets 2017-03-22T22:08:43+00:00

Neutering

Female ferrets (Gills) will stay in ‘season’ (oestrus) from March until September if they are not mated. The high levels of oestrogen hormones present in the blood during a oestrus cause anaemia which can be fatal. The surgical neutering of male and female ferrets can predispose them to developing other serious conditions so we advise the use of SUPRELORIN implants to suppress oestrus and control unwanted male behaviour.

The alternative to SUPRELORIN is the so called ‘Gill jab’ which is given  at the start of the ‘season’ and suppresses it. Vasectomised male ferrets (Hobs) can also be used to bring a Gill out of season.

Fleas

Fleas can present a real danger to ferrets due to their small body mass. This makes them vulnerable to flea induced anaemia from relatively low numbers of parasites. Working ferrets are particularly at risk. There are excellent flea treatments for ferrets available.

Diet

The best food for your ferret is a commercial dry complete diet.

Microchipping

We strongly advise all pet ferrets are microchipped. Ferrets are excellent escape artists and collars can be dangerous.

Common Diseases

Influenza- Ferrets can catch the flu from people and vice versa. If you have a cold you should avoid handling your ferret.

Adrenal Disease- This causes hair loss, muscle wasting, lethargy, abdominal enlargement and an increase in aggression. Treatment involves adrenal gland removal +/- the use use of an implant.

Green Slime Diarrhoea (Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis-E.C.E) This is a viral infection common in older ferrets. It often occurs after the introduction of a new young ferret which is carrying the disease but is asymptomatic.

Distemper- In 2011 there was a large outbreak of Canine Distemper in ferrets. It can easily be prevented by vaccinating your ferret with a canine distemper vaccine.