Message Number: YG9532 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2001-12-23 17:49:00 UTC
Subject: Re: [Ferret-Health-list] New member

Hi, Heather, and everyone else,

> I am also aware of the
> adrenal gland problems and have a good vet 70 miles away. Do they require
> vaccinations at all amd which ones?

I am not a vet, but I've certainly dealt with this... Ferret kits
require a series of three distemper vaccinations. In addition, a rabies
vaccination is needed. If your little one is from Marshall Farms the
first distemper vaccination was given, but he will need the remaining
two three weeks apart. He will also need one distemper shot and one
rabies shot each year.

Canine distemper is 100% fatal in ferrets, so vaccination is really
necessary. Rabies vaccination is especially important if he nips
someone. You'll be amazed what people call "bites", and in many states
and local jurisdictions a ferret who is not vaccinated for rabies and
bites someone will be killed and tested.

As far as changing from Marshall's to Mazuri food is concerned, you
probably want to do that gradually, at first mixing some Mazuri into his
Marshall's food and then adding more and more. That way there is far
less chance of an upset tummy and a better chance for him to get used to
the smell of the new food.

Also, Mazuri is an excellent choice, but I don't ever remember seeing it
in small bags. With only one ferret I'd be concerned about keeping it
fresh. The Ferret Store sells a "Vittles Vault" with an airtight seal
that is excellent for that purpose. Another possibility is to consider
another premium food that comes in smaller bags, such as Totally Ferret,
8-in-1 Ultimate, or Zupreem Ferret Diet.

Good luck to you and your new fuzzy.

All the best,
Caity and the terrific 10