From:
coachgail
Date: 2002-05-08 07:12:00 UTC
Subject: next step in ferret with weight loss
I just got a call back from my vet. Clyde's blood panel was normal,
with the exception of a very slight elevation on phosphorus. Glucose
dip at the vet the day before was 128. The vet said "Cleanest ears
on any ferret I have ever seen." No masses felt.
The problem is that Clyde has gone from 2.6 lbs ag to 1.7 lbs. He
has always been thin, but now is presenting an almost malnourished
look. Hip bones and spine are prominent. No sigificant hair loss.
Appetite is normal and still plays, although he has always been
an "old man" who sleeps alot.
Clyde is a rescue we got Dec. 18, 2000. Full grown then and I would
guesstimate between 3 and 5 years of age, so basically middle aged.
Hard to tell by tooth wear on him, as he lost most of a cainine early
in life.
These are the options the vet gave me:
1. Sonogram to look for masses
2. Exploratory surgery
3. Watch for more weight loss and see.
I feel I should start him on a duck soup routine, as I cannot stand o
see him so skinny.. However, if he gains weight, could this mask
whatever problem he has? Should I go ahead and schedule a sonogram?
Gail