From:
jadeblasio@aol.com
Date: 2008-11-12 02:39:04 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Re: need help getting farret healthy
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
How skinny is very, very, very skinny????
A female ferret should weigh at least 1.5lbs. In the past, ferrets were fed
a good quality, high protein, high fat cat/kitten food. However, this is
really no longer the case. There are a number of good foods on the market now.
Two I can rec. are Totally Ferret Baby Formula (which can be ordered online
from the Ferret Depot) or Natural Gold (which can be bought in the pet
stores).
Both are high in protein and low in Carbohydrates (which is very important,
as Ferrets do not need carbohydrates being carnivores, and it is expected that
carbohydrates lead to the development of Insulinoma Disease).
Ferrets also imprint their food, very early in life. So, in order to
introduce these foods...you may need to find out what she was eating and combined
the new and old food together, gradually reducing the old food...until you are
100% on the new food.
Now...if the ferret is under weight, it would be a good idea to find a
ferret knowledgeable vet (which can be rec here or at the FML) and have her
examined. You also want to suppliment the feedings. You can do so by offering in
addition to the kibble.... Gerbers stage two baby food, meat only. You can
add to a plate, add some water, heat a couple of seconds, check for hot
spots, and then serve. If you offer 1/2 jar in the am and 1/2 jar in the PM this
will help to put weight on.
It is also a good idea to continue as a treat to keep a healthy protein
source in her diet. She will refuse at first...but just put some on your finger
and rub on her gums and nose and eventually she will beg you for it!!!!
Also, I rec. purchasing the book "Ferrets For Dummies" as it is the best
reference on the market and will provide a wealth of information.
One last note...treat containing sugar are not good for ferrets. No fruit,
yoggies etc. Treats should be from a meat base...like Bandit Treats.
Ferrets should not have raisins or fruit. Just a side note.
I hope this is helpful, sorry for being so long winded.
Judy
Metroferret, NJ
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