From:
Bruce Williams, DVM
Date: 2001-03-25 00:03:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Prolapsed Rectum in Kit. Please Help!
Dear Wendy:
Fecal consistency is derived from action of the colon, not the owner.
Moistening the food impacts only on its presentation in the oral cavity. In
the oral cavity, kibble is normally pulverized and mixed with saliva. In
the stomach and intestine, these particles are further digested to form a
slurry, and when it hits the large intestine, it is primarily colored water.
The colon reabsorbs the water to compress the ingesta to a point where it
form normal fecal matter.
Thus, pre-moistened food is of no import when we are discussing diseases of
the colon and rectum.
Yes, at 6-7 weeks, it is past time for her to be on kibble. However, it is
not likely that wet or dry food will have a profound influence on the
prolapse. The prolapse will actually be worsened by the passage of a soft
liquidy stool, as there is nothing for the rectum to push against, so it
will keep straining until it pushes itself out again.
I would certainly recommend a fecal sample in this kit, as well as a bit of
investigative work to find out what it was eating prior to arriving in your
home. Parasites and diet changes are probably the most common causes of
diarrhea in kits.
With kindest regards,
Bruce H. Williams, DVM, DACVP
Join the Ferret Health List at
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----- Original Message -----
From: "Syriiu" <syriiu@h...>
To: "Bruce Williams, DVM" <williams@e...>
Sent: Friday, March 23, 2001 10:58 PM
> Hmm...
>
> I never thought of that. I've been visiting several ferret owner fourms
to
> get advice. Many people have been telling me to moisten the food and
> lubricate to make it easier on her when she passes it through the
prolapse.
> I've been softening her food for as long as I've had her(1 1/2 weeks).
> She's only about 6 or 7 weeks though. Do you think she's ready to start
> eating dry food? I'm willing to try anything to help her, so maybe I'll
try
> dry food for a few days and see if it helps. The Preparation H has done
> miracles for it these past few days. :)
>
> Wendy