Message Number: SG2022 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2002-10-29 21:42:44 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] alergyes in ferrets
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Cc: pogoscab@juno.com
Message-Id: <20021029164244.3aac2356.whiteweasel@earthlink.net>

Hi,
>
> is it possible for aferret to have an alergy to something the
> same way we do my little barnaby has had a runny nose for a
> little over a month now.

Inhalation allergies are uncommon in ferrets but not unheard of. My
Pertwee has been diagnosed by two good ferret vets as having seasonal
allergies. His problem is sneezing attacks.

> i am able to
> keep the dust about 85% under control, and the wood pellets i
> use are white pine.

Pine is an aromatic wood and this may be part of the problem. Please
read:

http://www.trifl.org/cedar.html

The pine may be causing or worsening an existing respiratory infection.
It is not a safe litter for ferrets.

> i am unsertan about this but he sure acts
> like an alergy.

It is far more likely to be a respiratory infection. He really needs to
see a vet who is experienced with ferrets ASAP. As I said before, if this
isn't already serious for him it will be if nothing is done.

FWIW, we use litter made from recycled newspaper. We are continuing
with Yesterday's News Ferret Litter because it's what my weasels are
used to and they become magically un-trained if I dare change it on
them. However, there are any of a number of recycled paper litter
brands that are equally fine.

Regards,
Caity and the notorious nine