From:
AFERRETVET@cs.com
Date: 2003-02-16 03:48:45 UTC
Subject: Re: Fruits/Veggies
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <19f.10d30849.2b80641d@cs.com>
Yes, ferrets can digest some of the fruits and veggies.
They can digest sugars and carbohydrates, but have a hard
time digesting fiber. Thus most of the fiber passes thru the
GI tract and into the litter box. The fiber will often cause a loose,
mucoid stool. They can digest some of the vitamins and minerals
also. Another problem with fruits and veggies, to much sugar may
cause an insulinoma and problems with an insulinoma. Another problem
is possible GI tract obstruction from cherry pits, carrot bits, etc.
Thus use meat, baby food, a/d, or cooked eggs as treats.
Ferrets need high protein, high fat, and low to no carbohydrates
(ie "the Atkin's diet").
Hope that helps,
Jerry Murray, DVM