From:
jlcrow29
Date: 2002-03-21 23:32:00 UTC
Subject: Concern for an older ferret
Hello,
I am looking for some feedback about my ferret Mandy.
Background:
I adopted her over 4 years ago from a local shelter and I estimate
her age to be about 6-7 years old. She did have adrenal surgery about
2 years ago and did great. If I remember correctly they removed 1 and
half of the adrenal glands. I'm sorry I don't have the exact info,
that paper work is in storage.
Over the last two months she has rat tailed again and has also lost a
little hair at the base of her tail. She still eats and drinks and
uses the litter. She still is playful but over time her play periods
have diminished in length. I know that is to be expected.
Problem:
I work out of home a lot and her cage is in my office. Yesterday she
went to jump in her hammock and she fell to the floor of the cage.
She quickly got up and climbed back up and got in the hammock. But I
have never seen her do that. I have also noticed in the last few days
that her breathing seems quicker and shallower then I have noticed
before, she gets dazed looking quite frequently and is constantly
closing her right eye. I don't think this has to do with the fall
because it was at most a foot drop. I am more concerned that she has
a more serious problem or is this that she is just getting old.
Also, just for reference, I have had two previous ferrets that both
had to be put to sleep due to systemic tumors. But when they got ill
they crashed quick, and after taking each to the emergency vet, they
were put to sleep within 48 hours.
Can anyone give me some thoughts? I'm very concerned. Should I take
her to the vet or is this normal for an older ferret?
Also here is a URL to a picture of her taken about last August:
http://www.simbi.net/mandysm.jpg
I appreciate the help!
John