From:
Bruce Williams, DVM
Date: 2001-10-23 14:23:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Addison's disease in ferrets
--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "Lisa Shortley" <fer8queen@h...>
wrote:
> Hi,
> I've searched the archives but can't seem to figure out exactly
what
> Addison's disease is.
>
> I have four ferrets who have been through two adrenal surgeries
> each - the most recent round within the past 4-8 weeks - all their
> electolytes were off by 3 weeks post-op, despite being given an
> injection of percortin at the time of surgery and being on pedia-
pred
> (.3ML once daily for 2 weeks, then .3ML once every other day for
two
> weeks).
>
> Because these were second surgeries for all of them, I'd known to
> surely watch for signs of their ratios being off, their vet was
> fairly sure he'd removed everything.
>
> From the mentions of Addison's disease, I'm assuming this has
> something to do with ferrets having true bilateral adrenal
> surgeries. I've heard mention some risks of levels being off and
> ferrets being off. I've been very vigilant with my ferrets and
with
> giving the injections.
Dear Lisa:
Addison's disease is also known as adrenocortical insufficiency. The
adrnel glands produce a number of compunds that regulate levels of
varius chemicals and minerals in the body. One of these, the
mineralocorticoids, helps to maintain the level of electrolytes,
primarily sodium, in the body.
If the adrenal glands are removed, the source of this hormone is also
removed, and the electrolytes are thrown out of whack. The sodium
level falls, and the sodium:patoassium ratio falls. This can be life-
threatening if it goes on long enough. Sodium is indeed important.
Keep up with the injections - they are your ferret's adrenals.
With kindest regards,
bruce Williams, DVM