From:
dr_bruce_williams
Date: 2002-04-06 00:08:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Distemper?
--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "sirk6" <sirk6@m...> wrote:
> Went to the local Petco yesterday. I was told they had a baby in
the back
> that was diagnosed with the 'onset of distemper' and asked if I
would take a
> look at him. I did. The ferret just came into the store from X
> through Y. His body is red and there is a bruise on his tummy. His
> eyes are bright, his gums are a nice pink. The paw pads seem a
little white
> but not crusty. No breathing problems. His poops are of a good
color and
> firm. His distemper shot was given on 3-4-02. I thought that maybe
it was a
> left over symptom of an allergic reaction to his shot, but it has
been a
> month.
>
> Any thoughts or ideas for this little one?
>
> Thank you,
> Mary
Dear Mary: On the off chance that this might not be distemper - it
probably is a good idea to continue the distermper series (provided
this animal is not showing a fever. A pet store is a great place to
get distemper if you don't already have it...
You mention that the body is red - I am having a bit of trouble
visualizing what you mean. I would say that a generalized rash which
usually begins on the chin is often seen with distemper. the course
of distemper is up to 45 days, and first signs are usually seen 12-14
days after infection. This may be a slow progressing case, and the
other signs will show up over time.
Did you ask how they came to that diagnosis?
Worst thing you can do - offer to take this little one home,
unfortunately.
With kindest regards,
Bruce Williams, DVM