From:
Debi Rodvelt
Date: 2001-11-13 22:48:00 UTC
Subject: 2 old guys with eating problems
I have 2 boys, both approx. 5-6 years old who have 2 different problems.
First is Moose. He is a Marshall Farms sable, and I've had him since he was
a few weeks old. He had three surgeries for adrenal disease this past year.
Finally, it looks like the adrenal problems have been solved--he has a
beautiful coat of fur again and has gained a little weight. In the last two
or three weeks he has decided to only eat cat food and grinds his teeth when
he eats. I know that is a sign of stomach upset and/or ulcers, but his
stools look decent for cat food as their beginnings; light brown and formed
but soft. Even with the tooth-grinding, he seems to have a hearty appetite.
He is starting to loose weight, though, and no matter what kind of ferret
food I offer or its consistency, he refuses to eat it. He can't afford to
lose any more or he'll be back to skin and bones. Any ideas as to why he's
suddenly fussy and what I can do for him?
Second is Timmy. He has been with me for about two years now. He came to
me with an enlarged spleen which has had its smaller and larger moments. He
started acting sick about a month ago. He didn't eat much for a day and his
temperature dropped. I ran him to the emergency vet for some fluids and
time in the incubator. When I brought him home, he only wanted cat food to
eat. (He lived on cat food when he was younger and thinks it's a treat.
I'm sure his bad example is what started Moose's rebellion too.) He seemed
to be doing better, eating well, etc. I even have caught him sampling
ferret food again when I'm not looking. However, the last couple of days,
he will eat a few bites of food, run frantically away, and start heaving as
if he needs to vomit. Nothing happens and he is okay after minute, but at
that point he has no interest in more food. When I had him at the vet's,
they said his large abdomen feels like he could have some tumors, but he's
probably not a good surgical candidate to check them out. Could his eating
problems be a symptom of cancer or am I panicking for no reason? Are there
any other explanations for this that you know of?
I would appreciate any help. I have seven other young ones and one older
female about to have adrenal surgery. But every time I turn around we have
new mystery illnesses or symptoms that I have never experienced with any of
them before.
Debi