From:
AFERRETVET@cs.com
Date: 2001-03-17 14:44:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] Appetite stimulators
There seems to be some questions about using
Serax (oxazepram), Valium (diazepam), and Periactin
(cyproheptadine) as appetite stimulators in ferrets. These
3 products are often used in cats for appetite stimulation.
Usually in 1-2 minutes after giving IV valium the cat will eat
everything in sight. Unfortunately there is a small percentage of
cats
that will have a fatal liver problem from valium. Thus it is no
longer used in cats. Serax is very similar to valium. It works
well, but it is a controlled drug. Periactin is an antihistamine,
but it also has antiserotonergic effects (i.e., psychoactive
benefits). It has a wide margin of safety and comes both
in a pill (4mg) and a syrup form (2mg/5ml). It may be the safer
and easier option. Plus it is not a controlled drug.
Pediapred often perks up the appetite too. If the anorexia
is ulcer related then carafate will help (and do not give pred).
Of course the best thing is to find out why the ferret is
no longer eating well, so you can fix that problem.
Jerry Murray, DVM