Clinical decision support tool. Does not replace professional veterinary judgment. Always verify recommendations with current references.
Domestic Ferret
FERRET· SMALL· Lifespan: 6-10 years
📋 Breed Predispositions
| Condition | Prevalence | Onset | Severity | Screening |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lymphoma | Most common neoplasia | Any age (2 peaks: < 2 years and > 5 years) | LIFE THREATENING | CBC, peripheral lymph node palpation, biopsy |
| Aplastic Anemia (Estrogen Toxicity) | Intact females only | First estrus if not bred | LIFE THREATENING | PCV if in prolonged estrus |
| Adrenal Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) | > 70% over age 3 | 3-7 years | SEVERE | Adrenal panel (estradiol, 17-OH progesterone, DHEA-S) or ultrasound |
| Insulinoma | > 20% over age 4 | 4-7 years | SEVERE | Fasting blood glucose (< 60 mg/dL = suspect, < 40 = diagnostic) |
| Epizootic Catarrhal Enteritis (ECE — Green Slime Disease) | Common in multi-ferret households | Any age (worst in seniors) | SEVERE | Clinical signs + coronavirus fecal PCR |
🩸 Breed-Specific Lab Normals
| Test | Breed Normal | General Range | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Glucose | 65-120 mg/dL | N/A (species-specific) | Fasting glucose < 60 mg/dL is suspect for insulinoma. < 40 mg/dL is diagnostic. Always check fasted (4-6 hrs). |
| Estradiol | < 100 pg/mL | N/A | Elevated estradiol (+ alopecia, swollen vulva) suggests adrenal disease. DHEA-S and 17-OH progesterone complete the adrenal panel. |
🏥 Anesthesia Considerations
⚠ Insulinoma — hypoglycemia during fasting
Fast only 4-6 hours. Check blood glucose before induction. Dextrose bolus on hand. Standard small animal anesthetic protocol otherwise — intubate with 2.5-3.5mm tube.