From:
"I Ate Pacman"
Date: 2009-11-20 17:37:42 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] How long do ferrets shed the ECE virus? ( and many other questions)
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
Hi there!
My three ferrets had the ECE virus in July after the introduction of a new ferret. Sadly my senior ferret with insulinoma and adrenal passed away as a result and my other senior was deathly ill and required round the clock medical care. The new young ferret who introduced this to the household showed no symptoms.
I have had numerous opinions on how long my ferrets will shed the virus, ranging from 3 months to 6 months to a year. I am looking for some more opinions as to how long they should be shedding the virus.
The reason for my concern is that I am debating whether or not to take in two 9 month old ferrets that have been neglected and in doing so weighing out the risks and benifits.
This is what I have heard and would like addition opinions on-
where new ferrets are severly overweight and very young they should not have complications as severe as my senior ferrets if they do catch it. Do you think this is valid?
I visited with the young ferrets for an hour. They are up to date on vaccinations.
They have been caged for 99% of their short lives and are very overweight.Their cage was so tiny it would outrage any devoted ferret owner...but lets not go there. ;(
The fattest male is showing signs of hind leg weakness. Realizing there are many causes for this medically, is it possible this could be due to being caged all the time? It is a consistent weakness.
*My main concern is contagious medical problems it could be. ADV? Is their weight gain or weight loss with ADV?*
He is able to run for short amounts of time and overall is in good health.
*Is it common for overweight boy ferrets to pee on their tummys and not clean it off? I have always had girls so I have no idea.*
Any opinions would be helpful. I am curious if anyone would take in these two youngsters considering the risk of ECE...
Sorry this is filled with questions!
Thanks in advance.
[Instead of opinions go with the info from the
first veterinary pathologist to study ECE, Dr.
Bruce Williams by reading
http://www.afip.org/consultation/vetpath/ferrets/ECE/ECE.html
Notice that at one point he writes "at least 8 months" (and at least
6 months in another spot. Notice the "at least".
Other expert ECE info can be found at
http://www.ferrethealth.msu.edu/
--Moderator]
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