Message Number: SG8549 | New FHL Archives Search
From: kestrelinden@yahoo.com
Date: 2004-04-16 18:57:26 UTC
Subject: Gastric ulcers
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <5314934.1082141846338.JavaMail.root@thallium.smartgroups.com>

Trying to make a short post here. In another thread I'm discussing my Paxie, who has a UTI that we know of, being treated with Clavamox. Another member brought up ulcers as Paxie has been off and on stressed throughout her life (rescue that was neglected as a young active kit, attempt to introduce to another ferret that turns out to be a bully). I've searched the list and read Dr. Williams' page on ulcers. Her stools aren't ever black or tarry, she doesn't grind her teeth or paw at her face. She does dig a lot but we always thought that was a habit picked up from being neglected.

My question is about a fecal occult blood test. They're meant to show bleeding further than the stomach and wouldn't help diagnose an ulcer? Because it's stomach blood that turns black and tarry because it's at the beginning of the digestion process? I'm not a vet, just a biologist who tries to read up on anatomy and physiology and always trying to learn. Are there any other tests we could have done or just keep an eye out for symptoms, while of course trying to reduce her stress levels even further?

Thanks,
Maureen, Paxie, and NikkoBear

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