Message Number: SG678 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Sukie Crandall
Date: 2002-08-07 20:15:19 UTC
Subject: intestinal complaints and diet
To: Ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-Id: <p05111700b9772d942680@[10.0.1.14]>

From things some had written I was going by the impression that
ferrets sometimes form an actual allergy to chicken or to poultry in
general. Now, I am wondering if -- at least at times -- it may be
out-grown if an allergy or if it may instead be an intolerance, and
am wondering how transient it may be.

Here is why:

Sherman is 2 years old, and began having a colitis that was easily
controlled with Pred and a diet of z/d. Recently it began improving
and his Pred has been reduced. Shortly after wefound that he could
eat a/d without problem and that is most chicken. We are now trying
regular crunchies to see if he is okay with them and so far he is
fine. Later, he's scheduled for further Pred reductions as possible.

Scooter has IBD and a huge, flaccid stomach (the organ, not the
area). Right now he is recovering from something he got last week
that gave him such bad constipation that it blocked him. There had
been worry of a possible tumor but that concern is diminished now
although further checks will be done.

The only combo that has held Scooter's runs at bay -- He has IBD and
has had for a while -- has been giving Imuran and Biosol while
keeping him on z/d. Originally changing to z/d made a huge
difference.

Today Steve accidently gave Scooter a/d and he did not get sick. We
don't know if he is more able to deal with chicken now, or if this
was a one-time only lucky episode.

Anyone know more about this to help us better figure it out? We will
of course be discussing this with their vet.