From:
Caitlyn Martin
Date: 2002-05-07 19:21:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Possible Deaf Ferret
Hi, Mike,
> I've read posts in the past about deaf ferrets. I suspect that a
> newly acquired pet is deaf. She is about 12 weeks old and is a MF
> ferret.
Our ferret Pertwee is deaf. He's a Triple F baby, so the breeder really
doesn't matter.
>
> She is an aggressive ferret compare to the 3 others I have had in the
> past. She bits quite a bit but that seems to be normal for a
> youngster.
Deaf ferrets bite when startled. It's a fear reacton. With time and
patience, though, you can gain her trust and that behavior will end. We
can startle Pertwee with impunity. For him any excuse to play with us
is good, BTW. Pertwee is one fun ferret.
> I have noticed that her biting has become more
> infrequent.
Again, that is because you are gaining her trust,
> The stern "NO" probably isn't helping because I think
> she is deaf.
You are going to have to use tactile and visual cues to communicate with
her. A scruffing may have to substitute for the "no". Always have
rewards for good behavior as well. Ferrets seem to respond best to
positive reinforcement. Also, talk to her when she's calm and well
behaved. Hold her to your throat so she can feel the vibrations.
>
> She doesn't respond to the typical noises that startle my other
> ferrets. Crinkling newspaper, banging pots and pans, clapping or
> whistling gets no response.
She could be truly deaf, or she could have very limited hearing at
certain frequencies only.
>
> I think I read that the ear canal is
> sometimes not formed. If the ear canal is not formed can a vet fix
> the problem?
I've never heard of that. I am most certain I wouldn't do surgery on a
ferret for it. "The problem" is probably no problem for her. My
Pertwee certainly doesn't know he's missing anything. He's incredibly
energetic, playful, and yet he can be affectionate too. He's a
wonderfuly companion animal, and he seems happy enough. Why would I put
him through the risk of surgery? How would it improve his quality of
life? Besides, Pertwee's ears look perfectly normal, so it's probably
not an option.
Good luck with your little girl.
All the best,
Caity