Message Number: YG13509 | New FHL Archives Search
From: eezilee_amuzed
Date: 2002-06-03 17:00:00 UTC
Subject: expressing the bladder, ever harmful?

My ferret with the mystery infection - bladder? prostate? - was still
urninating but not much and was making frequent attempts only to
produce a minimal amount. I have been keeping an eye on his condition
as the vet suggested. I wasn't sure where to feel for the bladder
before but I think it made it's presence known to me. I noticed that
below his penis has become a little hard. There's the inch long
hardened area which people on this board has described as the penis.
Maybe it's my imagination, but it hasn't felt so pronounced before
(keep in mind I have only had this ferret less than a week and I am
just getting to know him). The area that I suspect as the bladder is
below this penile area. Since he is still urinating (although small
amounts), the vet suggested that I wait until morning and bring him
in. He is getting dropped off first thing in the morning and will be
there until I pick him up after work. This is comforting because at
least he will be monitored and treated throughout the day rather than
a rushed regular visit which wasn't scheduled to take place until
Wednesday evening.

Now for the important question: If there is some sort of blockage or
the bladder or penis is really inflamed, could expressing the bladder
in this manner cause harm?

Thanks!