What kind of problems does a ferret have?
Similar to domestic cats, ferrets can also suffer from hairballs and dental problems. Ferrets will also often chew on and swallow foreign objects which can lead to bowel obstruction. In common with most domestic animals, the original reason for ferrets being domesticated by human beings is uncertain, but it may have involved hunting.
What kind of research can you do with a ferret?
Ferrets have been used in many broad areas of research, such as the study of pathogenesis and treatment in a variety of human disease, these including studies into cardiovascular disease, nutrition, respiratory diseases such as SARS and human influenza, airway physiology, cystic fibrosis and gastrointestinal disease.
What are the symptoms of adrenal disease in ferrets?
Ferrets are neutered in order to prevent other serious health problems and because it makes them better, friendlier pets. The most common symptom of adrenal disease is a symmetrical hair loss, usually starting at or near the base of the tail and progressing toward the head.
How are black footed ferrets being saved from extinction?
Hoping to save the species from the ravages of disease and habitat loss, conservationists managed to capture the last 18 of these animals, including Willa, before disease wiped them all out. A captive breeding program was established to safeguard the species and grow their numbers until reintroductions were possible.
Why are there so many diseases in ferrets?
Unfortunately, ferrets young and old are susceptible to serious diseases. For a variety of reasons, the quality of the ferret gene pool is poor. This increases the number and frequency of diseases that affect ferrets, many of which do not have complete treatment options.
What are some myths and misconceptions about ferrets?
3. Ferrets have great vision because they burrow in the dark. Ferrets do not have good vision and can see only in reds and blues. 4. Ferrets can’t use a litter box and poop everywhere. They can — it just takes time and patience with training and a lot of litter boxes in corners (ferrets typically “go” in corners).
When to take your ferret to the vet?
You will want to prevent him from becoming dehydrated and may want to try giving him some rehydrating drinks made for children. If your ferret has symptoms that last longer then a few days or stops eating or drinking, this can indicate a more serious illness or disease and you should get him to the vet right away.
Is it true that ferrets can’t be trained?
Tell that to ferret owners. Ferrets can make noises and often do so while playing or dancing (known as “dooking” by some ferret owners). While they may not be the most vocal animals, they are certainly not silent. 2. Ferrets can’t be trained. They certainly can be trained: to use the litter box, come on command and even do tricks.
