From:
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Date: 2002-09-19 07:52:41 UTC
Subject: coughing
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <18899869.1032421961380.JavaMail.root@scandium>
Lately, I have been noticing a sort of coughing among 3-4 of the ferrets I've had the longest (2-3 years old). At first, it seemed like one or two may have just dug around in the cat litter (Sweetscoop) or something like that, but the fact that it has persisted for about a week now is making me concerned.
The trouble is, I don't know how to describe the problem. I want to get the vet's help, but I'm quite certain that they wouldn't make the noise while they were there. They don't have nasal discharge or any other symptoms.
It is almost like they're coughing through their nose. A very wet, quick hack. At least one of them does it with mouth closed. They do it 3 or 4 times (appearing very miserable) and then go about their business until a 1/2 hour or hour later.
Anyone have any ideas as to what this might be, or how to get it diagnosed? If I can find the audio recorder, I'll try to tape it for the vet. Otherwise, I expect she'll put them on antibiotics.
I would welcome any thoughts,
xxxx