From:
"Amanda"
Date: 2011-02-26 19:20:57 UTC
Subject: [ferrethealth] Abscess near anus on 1 yr old male ferret
To: ferrethealth@yahoogroups.com
Hi everyone!
I need advice please! I spoke to Bob Church this morning, and he gave me some advice (Thanks Bob!). I'm hoping a vet and knowledgeable ferret people on here can help...
Last night my 1 yr old (neutered, descented) little guy Cletus was licking his rear so I quickly took a look. I found an abscess that was oozing pus next to his anus. I did some searches and found that it's probably due to some missed glandular tissue when he was descented.
Our cats have had abscesses in the past, and I'm not squeamish, so taking care of the wound is not a problem.
Last night I cleaned the wound, and got all of the remaining pus out, and put warm compresses on it. I got up a few times during the night and checked on him, and to make sure it was draining and to put another compress on him. I've been doing the same today, and more pus is coming out. There's a firm, large blueberry sized lump under the open sore.
I called his vet this morning, but she's not in until Tuesday. They referred me to another vet who takes care of ferrets, and she is not in until Tuesday as well. I called all over to try to find a ferret-knowledgeable vet in my area, and no one is available. Really unbelievable - I would think they would have at least one small animal vet around on weekends in case of emergencies.
Anyway, since I can't find a vet, I'm wondering if there's anything else I can do?
I don't think he has a temp, but I can't be 100% sure without a thermometer. He's eating normally, drinking plenty of water, peeing and pooping regularly. He's playing like his crazy self. The only thing was yesterday afternoon, before I noticed the abscess, he slept heavier and longer than normal, which I figure was probably due to the infection and pain. Since the abscess has ruptured and been draining, he doesn't seem to be in pain, and is letting me swab the sore and keep it clean.
I'm sure this isn't a rare thing, but I always hear about how furkids can go down so fast, and the last thing I want is one of my babies to be gravely ill from this going septic.
Thanks!
Amanda
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