From:
nicole@mb-law.com
Date: 2003-07-02 14:24:52 UTC
Subject: Non-Adrenal Hair Loss > VETS??
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <3691949.1057155892114.JavaMail.root@thallium.smartgroups.com>
I posted before regarding this same issue well over a year ago. Having not found an answer, and still trying to solve the mystery, I am trying again in hopes that some of the ferret-friendly vets on the list may have suggestions.
Chumley is a 4 year old male. When he was just over a year old, he began losing the hair on his tail. He developed blackheads, which I understand is common with hairloss on the tail. The tail became completely bald and I feared adrenal. My vet suggested the Tennessee panel before we just sliced him open. The panel came back negative. (I know - not always accurate). When he was not quite two, he began walking funny - very stiff legs and no ferretlike flexibiliy anywhere in his body. He can't run, jump or wiggle into small places like the others. I took him to another vet for a "second opinion". This vet also recommended the Tennessee panel, which again came back negative. And, she could not provide any explanation for his "stiffness".
More than 2 yrs later, his tail is still bald, the hair on his back is thin and VERY course. He has never had the soft, fuzzy ferret coat. He hasn't lost any weight, but has a very rigid belly. In fact, I can describe him as hard (as apposed to soft and cuddley like ferrets should be). He cannot scratch his ears if they itch an Never Ever lies on his back - he cannot flatten out and his spine seems curved.
I am desparate for a solution after so much time. Any suggestions are very much appreciated.