From:
dooknook@comcast.net
Date: 2004-01-11 05:32:25 UTC
Subject: Diabetic ferret
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <2442369.1073799145579.JavaMail.root@indium.smartgroups.com>
Ranger is a 7 year old ferret that came into my care today, for 6 months. He had a BG of 600 on 1/6. Unfortunately, Ranger's vet has been out of town and was been seen by someone that doesn't normally treat ferrets. Due to miscommunication, etc., Ranger was only started on insulin this afternoon.
He also has a mass on his pancreas, confirmed by ultrasound two days ago, history of insulinoma, on pred for more than a year then stopped last summer when his bg went up to 246. Apparently he hasn't been seen by a vet untill now. He was scheduled for exploratory surgery on Tues. but that's been cancelled for now.
Just prior to his first unit of insulin, Ranger's bg was 600, as high as the meter will go.
Readings so far this afternoon/evening:
2:40 600
4:40 399
6:45 144
9:30 106
No ketones.
Ranger has been lethargic, dehydrated, nauseated, grinding his teeth and not eating except for duck soup I've given him a couple of times, didn't urinate for a few hours which was totally different than when he was going frequently per his mom. She said he had been eating well, drinking a lot of water. I've given him 30cc's of fluids at 4 and again at 9pm. Gave him 0.5cc's of carafate about two hours ago.
I'd appreciate any advice on how to continue his treatment until his vet is back in town. Please. :) How much lower should I let his bg go without treating him for hypoglycemia? I think I know the answer but I don't want to take any chances.
Also, what are some of the areas I can use to get a drop of blood other than clipping a nail?
Dr. Murray, thank you. You too, Pam and Angela.
Jackie