Message Number: SG11884 | New FHL Archives Search
From: "Sue Liszewski"
Date: 2004-12-18 00:48:13 UTC
Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] RE: Hypothyroid ferrets- Skin problems
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <BAY15-F12CED437C6B1EBE9015464DCA00@phx.gbl>

Thyroid testing can be confusing. Testing T4 levels can show falsely low
levels if an animal has something else going on so you can never just use a
T4 level for diagnosis unless perhaps we are using a T4Equilibrium Dialysis
Sample but in that case I don't think there are normal established levels
for ferrets. You need to have a vet check with their lab to see what is
best to run for ferrets. Best of Luck.
Dr. Sue

>From: naturabella@stny.rr.com
>Reply-To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
>To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
>Subject: Re: [ferrethealth] RE: Hypothyroid ferrets- Skin problems
>Date: Fri, 17 Dec 2004 18:10:54 +0000 (GMT)
>
>Mare,
>My ferret is also showing symptoms...lethargy, neurological episodes, skin
>problems, cold intolerance, weakness..BUT he has not gained weight, but I
>am wondering if all hypothyroids have to gain weight.
>What symptoms are your friend's ferret showing?
>My ferret has had these skin problems for years and it is getting worse
>gradually. We have ruled everything else out with respect to his skin
>problems and I want to run a thyroid test.
>What kind of symptoms is your friend's ferret showing?
>
> Please let me know if you find out anything, or get tests done. I am
>wondering if the "rareness" of hypothyroidism stems from the lack of
>testing for it. Maybe it is not as rare as it seems.
>I am certainly going to try to rule it out with my ferret. I am not sure
>how the test is done. But I think that hypothyroidism will show low levels
>of T4. Some labs will also run a TSH stimulation test for a more accurate
>diagnosis, if I did my research correctly.
>Again, please let me know if you find anything out and I will let you know
>if I learn anything,
>Thank you
>Tara
>Author wrote:
> > Mike, how does someone get a positive diagnosis for Hypothyroidism? What
> > tests need to be run? I have a friend who's ferret is displaying the
>symptoms,
> > but the vet doesn't know how to get a positive diagnosis.
>
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