Ferret CDE FFA

Human Influenza and Cold Viruses

Can infect ferrets and be passed back to humans; symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, loss of appetite

Canine Distemper

Highly contagious and fatal viral disease; vaccinate young kits every 2 weeks then annually

Canine Distemper Symptoms

Eye and nose discharge, breathing trouble, diarrhea, swollen dry footpads

Rabies

Rare in ferrets but possible; some states require vaccination

Helicobacter mustelae

Bacteria in ferret stomach causing ulcers and chronic stomach inflammation

Helicobacter Symptoms

Loss of appetite, vomiting, teeth grinding, black stools, salivation, abdominal pain, weight loss

Helicobacter Treatment

Multiple antibiotics for about 21 days

Lawsonia intracellularis

Bacteria causing intestinal tissue overgrowth in young ferrets

Lawsonia Symptoms

Diarrhea, weight loss, rectal prolapse

Lawsonia Treatment

Antibiotics for 14–21 days

Botulism

Caused by Clostridium botulinum toxin; leads to paralysis and death from contaminated food

Ear Mites

Otodectes cynotis; causes scratching, head shaking, dark debris in ears

Mange

Caused by Sarcoptes scabei; leads to hair loss and itchy skin lesions

Fleas

Common if cats or dogs present; heavy infestations cause anemia and weakness

Physical Injuries

Caused by doors, rocking chairs, motors; prevent by ferret-proofing the home

Ear Cleaning

Use cotton swab with peroxide; dry ears afterward

Bathing

Monthly or every 4–6 weeks unless dirty

Nail Trimming

Keep nails short to avoid injury

Diet

Feed high-quality dry kitten or ferret food with ~35% animal protein

Housing

Cage must be escape-proof; ferrets like to see surroundings

Exercise

Ferrets need space and stimulation; enjoy watching activity

Family and Genus

Mustelidae, genus Mustela (related to weasels, mink, polecats)

Body Features

Long, slender body; short legs; small rounded ears; pointed snout; bright eyes

Colors

Common colors: sable, red-eyed white, silver mitt, sterling silver, butterscotch, cinnamon

Breeding Age

Females come into heat at 6–12 months, usually spring

Gestation

About 6 weeks; average litter 6–8 kits

Induced Ovulation

Female releases eggs only after mating

Heat Risks

Female left in heat can die from infection or aplastic anemia