Message Number: YG12361 | New FHL Archives Search
From: Lccmtaylor@aol.com
Date: 2002-04-09 01:27:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Update on sick ferret - getting worse

Hi Bronwyn,
I am not a vet, but you just described Sundance's symptoms to a T. One vet
kept insisting it was a shoulder or back injury, even though he gave no
reaction of pain when manipulated. Finally found an expert who also
suspected an injury or insuloma. Blood glucose came back high normal. A few
weeks later blood glucose was high - over 500! He was diabetic. After three
months on insulin, just as I had given up hope and was battling the decision
to put him down, he rebounded, is no longer diabetic and (although we are
dealing with other health issues) is my old guy again. My vet said that she
has seen a few diabetic ferrets (none with the other health issues of my old
man) and they self correct after a few months, then often become insulomic
later.
You need to have a blood glucose level taken. I suspect you are probably
dealing with either diabetic or insuloma - both of which can be treated.
Don't give up hope, they're tougher then they look.
You are in our prayers,
Cay, Princess and the boys