From:
NCFerretMom@yahoo.com
Date: 2002-08-22 16:44:06 UTC
Subject: re: post-vaccine encephalitis?
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <25582214.1030034646820.JavaMail.root@scandium>
Dr. Williams, thank you for the comments on this. You will notice the *?* is actually part of the diagnosis!
As I was reading the replies, I realized I had been technically inaccurate. When Oscar was examined by a ferret specialist in Houston, she actually stated that the weakness was also on his right side.
It is actually more of a paralysis. He can use his back half to stabilize as he climbs a ladder splint or ramp. He cannot keep himself from falling off a shelf or table, etc. if he starts to fall that direction. His front half is strong and he primarily crawls using his front limbs.
What interests me is that he HAS improved so that he can stand (and wobble) to eat and can even get going and take several steps forward if he has propelled himself rapidly enough. So, he obviously has SOME neural connection there. His war dance is a flop festival.
Oscar has had human PTs and OTs make suggestions. I was told to steer clear of a cart (like for dogs with hind end paralysis), but think Tazzie's wheels might be helpful to Oscar, especially as he is now almost 4 years old.
Any suggestions or ideas? He is healthy otherwise - no adrenal signs or insulinoma signs. The only thing ever found is an enlarged spleen.
Thanks for your help.
renee :)