From:
brendergrrl@gmail.com
Date: 2005-07-22 19:35:06 UTC
Subject: RE: question on spleen removal
To: ferrethealth@smartgroups.com
Message-ID: <7085063.1122060906481.JavaMail.root@thallium.smartgroups.com>
Hi,
One of my ferrets had an enlarged spleen. I don't think it really affected him; my vet didn't see any benefit to taking it out, so we didn't. His belly was just chubbier than usaul, and he slowed down too, but he was 7.5 or 8 when I lost him. His spleen would sometimes seem sensitive, but otherwise, he was as happy and healthy as he could be, given the circumstances and having insulinoma and some ulcers, etc. I don't believe there's a lot of harm to be done by leaving it in, in this sort of case, since he's still going strong. I'd say it was more likely that he'd be less healthy if you tried to operate. Can you get a second opinion from a different ferrety vet? I don't *think* there are any other treatment options, other than surgery.
good luck!
brenda
Author wrote:
> my ferret is 5.5 and his spleen is enlarged. he is 2 years post left adrenal surgery. he shows no apparent signs of additional adrenal problems or insulinoma. appetite, thirst, poop & pee are all normal. he's slowed down a bit from his younger days but he still dances and plays as I would expect for a 5.5 year old. the vet saw him about a month ago, felt it from outside his body and said it did not feel lumpy and bumpy, and it was best to leave it in. I recently lost another ferret to an unknown cause, and the circumstances have caused me to question the vet's advice. I am wondering what, if any, diagnostics should be done for him. also, what, if any, treatment. he's my last ferret and I'll do just about anything for him, if I just know what I should be doing. thanks for any advice or suggestions!