01/05/2024
sing them as their adult teeth come in, which should happen by the time they are 9 months old.
Nails should be cut every 2 to 3 weeks. Fur may be brushed daily with a soft brush; ferrets shed their coat twice a year.
Avoid overcrowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease. Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration.
Health
Signs of a Healthy Animal
Active and social when awake
Sleeps up to 18 hours per day
Shiny coat and clear eyes
Eats and drinks regularly
Distemper vaccinations are required at 8, 11 and 14 weeks of age; rabies vaccinations are required between 12 and 16 weeks of age. After that time, ferrets require annual vaccinations.
Red Flags
Weight loss
Abnormal hair loss
Diarrhea or dirty bottom
Distressed breathing
Lethargic
Eye or nasal discharge
Skin lesions
Pr*****ed re**um
Overgrown nails
Dental abnormality
Common Health Issues
Health IssueDiarrheaSymptoms or CausesLoose stools caused by poor diet, stress, internal parasites, unclean housing or infectious organisms.Suggested ActionConsult with a veterinarian to determine cause and treatment.Health IssueEar mitesSymptoms or CausesParasite that causes itching and brownish discharge in ears.Suggested ActionConsult a veterinarian for treatment.Health IssueUpper respiratory infectionSymptoms or CausesSymptoms include crusty eyes, nasal discharge and labored breathing.Suggested ActionConsult with a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.Health IssueAdrenal gland disorderSymptoms or CausesLoss of hair; cause unknown.Suggested ActionConsult a veterinarian.
