From:
Sukie Crandall
Date: 2002-09-30 00:11:45 UTC
Subject: Re: possible neurological problem
To: Sandra.Lange@bhpsteel.com, ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-Id: <p05111704b9bd45327593@[10.0.1.2]>
Neurological problems are rare in ferrets. Testing makes sense, and
with those symptoms we'd probably start with blood glucose testing
since these symptoms and the transient reprieve with steroids fit
with insulinoma. There is a great deal about ops and meds for
insulinoma in multiple locations and many of here are used to it, but
test first and then go from there.
Hind end weakness happens in ferrets with just about anything that
causes weakness. It's too common to be diagnostic.
Because of the problems eating I am also curious about the color of
the ferret's stools since the symptoms may also mesh with ulcers.
Wouldn't hurt to have a fecal occult run.
At the same time it would make sense to do some other basic testing
like a CBC with Blood Chemistry. The numbers for ferrets confuse
some vets who aren't used to them, but help can be found at
http://www.afip.org/ferrets/index.html
I am not a vet, but have 20 years of ferret experience.