From:
williamsdvm@comcast.net
Date: 2002-09-28 01:15:23 UTC
Subject: RE: Distemper Vaccinations
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <7993489.1033175723870.JavaMail.root@scandium>
Author wrote:
> Maybe this is common knowledge, but it's new to me. I would like to get input.
> I am only talking now about farm-bred ferrets, such as MF or Path Valley. I have always heard that these ferrets purchased through pet stores have received their first distemper vaccination and are due for two more, then one annually after that.
> I have recently read on another list that the distemper vaccination given at the "farms" is ineffective since it is given when they are too young. They should be given 3 distemper shots after purchase, not just two.
Dear Katharine,
Generally maternal antibody begins to wane about 4-5 weeks, but there is still considerable protection at 6 weks. However, remember that each vaccine gives a boost to the immune protection. So the way vaccinations work is baby gets antibodies in milk during first 24 hours (and minimal amounts therafter of a different, less effective type.) It wanes, wanes, wanes, then BOOM, at 6 weeks, the vaccine comes, the ferret is exposed to the virus, and the immune response goes higher than ever before. But as the six-week old really doesn't have a very effective immune system yet, it wanes, wanes, and wanes. So at 9 weeks we give another and BOOM! the immune response is better than it was after the first one. But it wanes, wanes wanes, and so at 11-12 weeks, we give another and BOOM and so on at 16 weeks.
Many ferrets only get three, so it isn't quite as strong at the end, but it generally does the trick very well. Each vaccine boosts the memory and protection of the immune system, taking it to new heights.
They why do adults only get two? Well, it has to do with the maturity and efficiency of the immune system. Their immune system can do much more with a vaccine, so they don't need as many. However, if a adult ferret has NEVER received any shots, I have no qualms about recommending a three shot series. But many adults have had at least that first introduction as a 6 week old, so two is usually the standard.
With kindest regards,
Bruce Williams, DVM