From:
dr_bruce_williams
Date: 2002-02-19 21:34:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Dental questions
--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "Sole" <orion77@t...> wrote:
> Hi
>
> I got new questions for all of you. My 8 month old ferret Ringo
had some dental tartar. Today the vet removed it and cleaned his
teeth completely. So, Ringo is OK now but I'm surprised because he is
so young and had so much tartar. He had his two molars with a lot of
tartar (they were brown) and a little spot in one front teeth. I've
always read that this problems are seen in much older ferrets.
>
>
> 1. ¿Is it normal for a ferret his age?¿Can this be a sign of
illness? He seems very healthy.
> 2. How can I prevent future dental problems?. I think I can't clean
his teeth daily, because he hardly lets me clean his ears. Is there
some dental paste for ferrets that makes easier this task? Dental
brushes for cats seems so big... Should I give him something special
to nibble?
I'd have to see how much tartar ther was, but it is unusual that
there was tartar buildup already. The particular chemistry of
everyindividual's mouth is different, and the composition of the
food may contribute.
I am very doubtful that this is any sign of illness, just be aware
that you have a tartar builder here.
I think at this point, I would try another food, perhaps one that is
just a bit crunchier - my recollection is that Eukanuba is a bit
moister than some of the other kibbles.
Make sure that the brush you are using is one that is of soft rubber
and fits over your finger. Yes, there really isn't one that is
ferret size, but it is generally more the size of the finger than the
brush that has to fit over it.
With kindest regards,
Bruce Williams, DVM