Lymphoma in Ferrets – What to Do?

Posted on August 23, 2019 by admin

Ferret lymphoma (likewise referred to as lymphosarcoma) is a horrible sort of cancer that is generally seen in ferrets. It affects all lymphoid tissue and can spread out throughout the whole body. It can also be tough to detect as well as unfortunately, no cures presently exist.

Multicentric lymphoma is when the lymph nodes are influenced as well as they are typically certainly bigger. The liver, spleen and also bone marrow may additionally be impacted. Mediastinal lymphoma affects the lymph nodes in the thorax (breast) and also may additionally affect the thymus gland. Gastrointestinal lymphoma, as the name suggests, is found in the stomach and also digestive system and may likewise influence various other organs. Extranodal lymphoma can impact the skin, eye, heart, kidneys, or main nerve system.

Signs and symptoms of Lymphoma
Given that lymphoma can be located almost throughout your ferret’s body it can be difficult to diagnose. Your ferret may offer with weakness, looseness of the bowels, sleepiness, vomiting, bloody stools, enlarged lymph nodes, itchy and also irritated locations of the skin, and even hemorrhaging within an eye. With a lot of possible signs in so lots of different areas of the body, the condition is usually dealt with symptomatically prior to a verified diagnosis is made.

Bloodwork or cytology and also biopsies of certainly influenced locations of the skin or noticeable lymph nodes will certainly aid in a favorable medical diagnosis. Enhanced calcium and low albumin degrees in the bloodwork might expose lymphoma, along with tumors determined via radiographs or ultrasounds. Commonly times a ferret is constantly ill and also optional surgery is carried out to explore the abdomen for feasible abnormalities. This surgical procedure typically locates some type of lymphoma and/or other typical diseases such as adrenal illness or an insulinoma.

If a biopsy of an affected lymph node is taken and is found to be favorable for lymphoma, it will be designated one of five stages. Stage five is the most awful phase where the bone marrow or blood is associated with the condition procedure.

Treating Lymphoma in Ferrets
Curing lymphoma is unfortunately not highly likely. While radiation treatment is offered, it normally just buys you a very limited quantity of extra time. Oral steroids, such as prednisolone, are provided to assist with the dimension of the tumors and also typically some enhancement is noted short term, but generally, a really inadequate lasting diagnosis (end result) is anticipated.

Dealing with lymphoma with steroids as well as symptomatically if your has looseness of the bowels, throws up, or a skin infection, are generally the choices most ferret owners take. Intravenous (IV) radiation treatment medicines are readily available to the owner that desires to do all they can for their ferret.

Reasons for Lymphoma

Currently, there is absolutely nothing you can successfully do to limit the opportunities that your pet will certainly obtain lymphoma. Yet ideally, someday that will certainly change.

If your has any type of signs and symptoms of lymphoma, such as looseness of the bowels, lethargy, or weight-loss, or you presume he has another common disease make certain you obtain him looked into by your exotics veterinarian immediately.

What is The Best Type of Ferret Litter?

Posted on June 22, 2019June 22, 2019 by admin

This is entirely dependent on the ferrets. Every ferret has different preferences.

They do seem to prefer to be able to get their entire bodies into the box and have room to turn around, so a large box is a must IMO. I use cat sized litter boxes, and I just use scissors to cut a dip into one side so they can get in and out easily.

Because they are cheap, most people prefer pelleted litters. You can buy wood stove pellets at many hardware/tractor supply/home improvement stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, etc), $5 for a 40lb bag. If you use pelleted litters, you will need to completely dump the box every couple of days and refill it.

Personally, though, my ferrets won’t use pelleted litters. They stay wet a lot longer and if their feet get wet, they will hop out of the box and poop in front of it. I usually use a walnut shell litter. It’s more expensive but they are reliable with the box which is all I care about. A plus to the walnut shell litter is that it’s scoopable and I don’t have to completely dump the box 2x a week.

Some ferrets can’t use scoopable litters. if your ferret likes to dig in it, you will want to avoid them as they can get clumps stuck up their nose. Some people get around this by mixing scoopable litters with clumping litters (a layer of scoopable litter on the bottom with pellets on top).

What is Ferret Duck Soup?

Posted on March 14, 2019March 14, 2019 by admin

Preview

Magnusson’s Garden understands your pet’s emotional, instinctual and physical needs.
Features
Zebra pattern, adorable and stylish
Foldable tunnel, save space and easy to carry
With a dangling toy ball, add more fun
Package content
Pet ferret – cat tunnel*1
Care Instructions
Surface wash with warm water and mild soap. Do not immerse in water.

A – What is commonly called Duck Soup is a meal source for ferrets in a gravy or soup form.
That is why all ferret owners should have a mix of food. With that being said, as ferrets get older there will be a time when you will have to give your ferret medication, or they are too ill to chew hard kibble on their own. Duck soup may be the only thing that is able to save your ferret.
The real Duck soup was designed for and used to help ferrets that have insulinoma.

Duck soup may be the only thing that is able to save your ferret. The real Duck soup was designed for and used to help ferrets that have insulinoma. That is why it was named Duck soup!

Duck Soup Recipe
2 cups of your kibble mix (I save all the crumbs to use).
12 Papaya Enzyme Tablet/ 50 mg.
2 tsp Lecithin (dry) 1200 granules.
2 capsules dry Vitamin E 400/400 IU capsules 300.
2 mL Pet Tinic.

Tip: For weight gain add 1 tsp of Heavy Cream (not milk) into the crock just before serving.

Add dry soup ingredients to the water. Once soup is mixed well add more water to the blender to fill vessel (do not over fill) and mix well.

Preview

How to reheat:.
Remove from freezer, place one cube in a small crock, and place in a microwave. Once defrosted, add warm water until crock is full.

I depend more on warm water to heat the soup than I do the microwave. I only defrost the cube till I can mix it well with warm water. One cube per ferret per meal.

For freezer preparation:.
Pour mixture into ice trays and let set for approximately 10 minutes. Place in deep freeze freezer. This recipe will make approximately 56 ice cubes.

For immediate preparation:.
Fill a blender 1/2 full of warm water. Place on base.
Add dry soup ingredients to the water. Cover and mix well. Once soup is mixed well add more water to the blender to fill vessel (do not over fill) and mix well.
Let mixture sit for 30 minutes before serving.
This mixture is only good in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

Can Ferrets Die of Loneliness – Do They Need a Companion?

Posted on March 10, 2019June 22, 2019 by admin

CAN FERRETS DIE OF LONELINESS? DO FERRETS NEED A COMPANION?

The fact that they have become domesticated shows that ferrets enjoy the interaction with others and humans. If they have come from a breeder or pet store who have kept them in groups then it is possible your new ferret will thrive better in a pair or group setting.

Humans Have Made Them This Way
The solution comes from understanding ferrets and where they came from. It stands to some reason, then, that ferrets would be solitary animals too. The problem comes from how we humans have domesticated ferrets over the years.

Can Ferrets Die Of Loneliness?
Caring and keeping for a ferret is a serious consideration and one not to be taken lightly. Ferrets are highly intelligent animals and need stimulation and play in order to thrive. Can ferrets get lonely and can they die of loneliness?

Risky Business of Ferrets
Many owners consider introducing another ferret when they realize they can not commit the time to their pet they originally planned. Introducing others takes time.

It’s Risky Business
Some experts believe that being kept in a group they are not used to can stress a ferret. Just because one ferret enjoys the company of other ferrets doesn’t mean another will.

Can a ferret die of loneliness then? What an owner needs to realise is that their ferret needs them otherwise they will suffer. If your ferret shows symptoms such as loss of appetite, disinterest, sleeping longer than shabby and usual appearance then that may suggest depression.

You Can Be Your Ferret’s Friend
In answering the question of friendship, and if ferrets need a buddy, the main view is yes they do. Ferrets do thrive on play. Domestication has turned them into a social animal but much of that social interaction is with humans and not just other ferrets.

Cuddly Ferret

Can Ferrets Die Of Loneliness?
As dogs enjoy their owners, so it is with ferrets. Do ferrets need friends? Can ferrets die of loneliness?

Do You Have The Time?
Not having time for your ferret could be the wrong motive to introduce another ferret into the family. If time is an issue you may have to question whether you should be keeping ferrets.

Ferrets are highly intelligent animals and need stimulation and play in order to thrive. Just because one ferret enjoys the company of other ferrets doesn’t mean another will. What an owner needs to realize is that their ferret needs them otherwise they will suffer. Not having time for your ferret could be the wrong motive to introduce another ferret into the family. Do ferrets need friends?

Ferret-Proofing Your Home

Posted on November 26, 2018March 9, 2019 by admin

Ferret Nation / Critter Nation Fitter Cage Liners (CAGE NOT INCLUDED) Here at Piggy BedSpreads, we’ve been making fleece bedding for small animals for 10 years.

Ferret-Proofing Your Home

Ferrets are very social and need daily time out of their cages for exercise. Thorough and thoughtful ferret-proofing is an absolute necessity. When approaching ferret-proofing, remember that ferrets are very curious, will chew and swallow things, love cozy enclosed spaces, and have flexible bodies that fit through very small openings.

Ferret-proofing is an ongoing task, rather than a one-time chore. No matter how thoroughly you ferret-proof, you should still carefully supervise your pet ferrets as you never know what they might try to get into next! Keep an eye on what your ferrets want to get into, and make adjustments as necessary.

These are some general ideas to remember when ferret-proofing your home.

Ferret-Safe Rooms
If it is feasible, a good way to ferret proof is to have a single room that is completely and fully ferret-proofed, in which you can let your ferrets romp with the door shut to block access to the rest of your home. If this is not possible, you can ferret proof a larger area but try to block access to the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room, as these are areas that are harder to ferret-proof.

Prevent Escapes
{Make sure your ferret cannot get outside. A ferret can easily tear through a window screen, so keep windows closed at play time if your ferret can reach them. Ideally, make sure that when your ferrets are out, they can not get to doors that lead to the outside. If someone inadvertently opens a door, your ferret might dart out; at the very least lock the doors when ferrets are playing. You should also check for any small openings to the outdoors (e.g. around plumbing, the dryer vent, etc) and make sure the ferret can’t get out under doors. Remember, ferrets can squeeze through amazingly small spaces. A ferret can easily tear through a window screen, so keep windows closed at play time if your ferret can reach them. If someone inadvertently opens a door, your ferret might dart out; at the very least lock the doors when ferrets are playing. You should also check for any small openings to the outdoors (e.g. around plumbing, the dryer vent, etc) and make sure the ferret can’t get out under doors.

Appliances
Ferrets can easily fit under most appliances and can then get up into the workings of the appliance, which can be dangerous if the appliance is turned on or if the ferret finds access to electrical wires. Additionally, ferrets are very attracted to baskets of laundry, and could inadvertently be put in the washer (or dryer) with a basket of clothes. A ferret that makes his or her way into the dryer vent duct now has an escape hatch! If your ferret has access to these rooms, you must find a way to block off the undersides and backs of the appliances, and you must double check the interiors of all appliances before using them or closing them.|Ferrets can easily fit under most appliances and can then get up into the workings of the appliance, which can be dangerous if the appliance is turned on or if the ferret finds access to electrical wires. A ferret that makes his or her way into the dryer vent duct now has an escape hatch!

Furniture
{Furniture is another favorite of ferrets for getting under and then climbing up into the inner workings. It is a good idea to tightly staple heavier fabric to the undersides of box spring mattresses and couches and chairs, as ferrets can easily get through the flimsy fabric often used here. Recliners are very dangerous to ferrets, as the reclining mechanism can trap and severely injure a ferret hiding under the chair. {Similarly, rocking chairs are a bad idea around ferrets.|Rocking chairs are a bad idea around ferrets.} You also need to check couch cushions before you sit down as ferrets may burrow under or even into them. Cushions should also be checked in case the ferrets are getting into them and chewing on the foam (a danger for intestinal blockages).|It is a good idea to tightly staple heavier fabric to the undersides of box spring mattresses and couches and chairs, as ferrets can easily get through the flimsy fabric often used here. Recliners are very dangerous to ferrets, as the reclining mechanism can trap and severely injure a ferret hiding under the chair. Cushions should also be checked in case the ferrets are getting into them and chewing on the foam (a danger for intestinal blockages).

Watch What They Eat
A common medical problem is blockages in the digestive system from something a ferret has swallowed, especially in kits. Ferrets will chew up and even swallow a surprising variety of items, but things like foam, styrofoam packing, soft rubber toys, neoprene, erasers, elastic bands, and rubber squeaky toys are among the most problematic. Indigestible items swallowed by ferrets can block the digestive system and require surgery to remove. You must also watch that your ferret does not ingest toxic substances, like cleaners, poisonous plants, medications, etc.

The following list is a good starting point for ferret proofing, but is not totally comprehensive. You will need to watch your ferret carefully in your own home to truly identify all the ways you need to ferret-proof your home!|Ferrets will chew up and even swallow a surprising variety of items, but things like foam, styrofoam packing, soft rubber toys, neoprene, erasers, elastic bands, and rubber squeaky toys are among the most problematic. You must also watch that your ferret does not ingest toxic substances, like cleaners, poisonous plants, medications, etc.

You will need to watch your ferret carefully in your own home to truly identify all the ways you need to ferret-proof your home!

Appliances – Restrict access to laundry and kitchen if possible. If not, block off around appliances (fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer, dryer, freezers) so that ferrets can’t get under them or into the workings (e.g. where the motor or wires are located). Double check for hiding ferrets before turning appliances on or shutting their doors.

Laundry baskets – Double check the laundry before putting in washer or dryer.
Dryer vents – Secure the dryer duct (watch for chewing into the duct) or your ferret may use it to get outdoors or into the dryer.

Air ducts – Ensure your ferrets cannot get into the heating/air ducts or they might get stuck, injured, or end up outdoors.

Boxspring mattresses – Securely cover bottom with heavy fabric or wood to prevent ferrets from climbing into the box spring.

Recliners – Always make sure your ferrets are nowhere near the mechanisms when using recliners, or better yet, do not use them when your ferrets are out.
Rocking chairs – It is best to avoid these when ferrets are out.

Couches, chairs – Secure the bottoms to prevent ferrets from getting under and up into the furniture. {Also check under the cushions before sitting, to make sure a ferret isn’t napping under them.|Check under the cushions before sitting, to make sure a ferret isn’t napping under them.} Using slipcovers will prevent ferrets from burrowing into the cushions.

Periodically check couch cushions, furniture, and pillows for signs of chewing.
{Small spaces – Make sure there are no small spaces through which your ferret could get out of the house or into the walls. Remember, if they can get their heads into a crack, their bodies can usually follow. Especially check around cupboards, plumbing, ducts, doors, etc.

Under doors – Watch for large spaces that ferrets can get through. {Also, to prevent ferrets from trying to dig out through the carpet under doors, you can place a plastic chairmat (can be trimmed to fit), thin plexiglass, or linoleum under the door (but watch for chewing on these).|To prevent ferrets from trying to dig out through the carpet under doors, you can place a plastic chairmat (can be trimmed to fit), thin plexiglass, or linoleum under the door (but watch for chewing on these).}|Small spaces – Make sure there are no small spaces through which your ferret could get out of the house or into the walls. Under doors – Watch for large spaces that ferrets can get through.

Windows – Make sure any accessible windows are closed when ferrets are out. Ferrets can easily bite through window screens.

Toilets – Drowning danger. Keeping ferrets out of the bathroom is safest overall, but definitely keep toilet seats down. Ferrets may try to get a drink and fall in.
Standing water – Similar to toilets, a sink, tub, or even bucket of water poses a drowning risk.

Cleaning supplies – Most cleaning chemicals are toxic or dangerous to curious ferrets. Keep strictly out of reach.

Cupboards – Most ferrets will easily get into your cupboards. Invest in the magnetic type of childproofing locks for cupboards (most of the plastic locks allow the cupboards to open a bit, which is enough for most ferrets to get in).
Electrical cords – Encase in plastic tubing to prevent chewing.

Houseplants – Do not keep poisonous plants, and keep other plants out of reach (ferrets will dig in the soil and might chew the plants).

Knick-knacks – Make sure breakable or delicate items are out of reach, and that there are no heavy items that might fall or be pulled over onto your ferret.

Bookcases and High Tables – Ferrets like to climb up and on things, but often can’t climb down. {However, their lack of fear will often make them try jumping even from heights, make sure there is no high furniture to get stuck on.|Their lack of fear will often make them try jumping even from heights, make sure there is no high furniture to get stuck on.}

Open railings – Around stairs etc.; lack of fear may lead to falls.
Garbage – Securely cover or keep out of reach.

Chewing and Ingesting – Watch for things that your ferret might chew and swallow – especially things like foam, soft rubber or plastic, styrofoam, sponges, rubber bands, pen caps, cotton swabs, fabrics, and so on. Remote control buttons are a favorite target.

Fans, Space Heaters, Candles, Fireplaces – Keep ferrets away from these.
Toys – Check periodically to make sure they are not being dismantled and eaten.

A ferret can easily tear through a window screen, so keep windows closed at play time if your ferret can reach them. If someone inadvertently opens a door, your ferret might dart out; at the very least lock the doors when ferrets are playing. You should also check for any small openings to the outdoors (e.g. around plumbing, the dryer vent, etc) and make sure the ferret can’t get out under doors. Ferrets can easily fit under most appliances and can then get up into the workings of the appliance, which can be dangerous if the appliance is turned on or if the ferret finds access to electrical wires. Recliners are very dangerous to ferrets, as the reclining mechanism can trap and severely injure a ferret hiding under the chair.by

The Amazing Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Pets

Posted on November 24, 2018March 10, 2019 by admin

INFRARED LED THERAPY PAD PAIN RELIEF! HOLISTIC HEALING WITH INFRARED LIGHTS!

Red light therapy, sometimes referred to as LLLT (or photomodulation), has been researched and studied for years and has become more and more popular for a variety of health and beauty benefits. However, it may come as a surprise to you that red light therapy has also been used for years by veterinarians across the world to treat dogs, horses, and just about any other kind of animal for a broad range of conditions.

Similar to the origins of light therapy for humans, low-level laser treatment (LLLT) was the initial method of treatment on animals. Recently, research has proven that LEDs are just as effective as lasers because of their ability to deliver the same wavelength and intensity of light photons. So, why does this matter? Well, laser equipment is incredibly expensive in comparison to LEDs – which are much more affordable for the average person. And because the efficacy of LEDs has been proven to be equivalent to lasers, red light therapy is now accessible via in-home use to a much broader audience.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
So, how does red light actually help animals? Very simply, it delivers an energy boost to the cells, which provides wide-ranging health benefits. Red and infrared light can penetrate your pet’s tissue, muscles, tendons and even bone to increase blood circulation, further promoting and boosting the healing process.

Now, if you’re more interested in learning about the specific health benefits of red light therapy, then go ahead and skip to the next paragraph. But if you’re a bit of a science nerd like me and you don’t mind a few hard-to-pronounce words, then let’s proceed. Just know that you’ve been warned.:-RRB-.

Red light promotes collagen production, which is vital to the healing process, by stimulating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is often referred to as the molecular unit of currency due to its function in cellular energy transfer. ATP interacts with the mitochondria in cells to stimulate oxidative metabolism, which is essentially the conversion of oxygen and carbohydrates to energy. This entire process is sometimes called mitochondrial photostimulation. (1) This is a just a fancy way of saying that red light gives the body’s cells increased energy. Because of this, cells can perform their normal functions faster. In fact, some studies have demonstrated cellular functionality improving by up to 200%! (2 ).

Pretty cool, right! Well, let’s move and learn how this increased cellular activity can help improve the health of your pet.

What Conditions Does Red Light Therapy Help With?
Because of the way it energizes the cells, red light can help with a number of health conditions in animals, including the following:.

Joint pain.
Osteoarthritis.
Muscle soreness.
Wounds and injuries.
Rashes and infections.
Inflammation.

And there’s clinical data to prove it! In one study, horses that suffered from chronic back pain for years responded so well to red light therapy that in less than 3 months, over 70% were back to training and competing! (3) In addition, studies have also shown that horses treated with red light experience significantly faster tissue healing times.

As you know, arthritis is a common health challenge as animals age. But some breeds, such as hounds and bulldogs, are particularly susceptible to joint problems – even at younger ages. Because of the growing clinical evidence, red light therapy is becoming a more mainstream treatment for these types of issues. (5) One such study was conducted on dogs that had surgery to repair herniated disks. On average, the treated group recovered 4 times faster than the control group! (6 ).

It’s easy to see why red light therapy is quickly becoming a popular treatment because of its utility and safety. Loving pet owners now have an effective alternative to costly (and sometimes harmful) medications and/or painful surgeries. Just like anything, you need to do your research and select a device that is optimized for power output and treatment area. But if you choose wisely, you AND your beloved pet can start enjoying the healing power of red light in the comfort of your own home!

References:.

( 1) Low-Intensity Light Therapy: Exploring the Role of Redox Mechanisms. Joseph Tafur, M.D. and Paul J. Mills, Ph.D by

How Long Do Ferrets Live?

Posted on April 24, 2018March 10, 2019 by admin

Ferret and Fairly Lights — Ferret and Fairy lights

Q: What is the average ferret lifespan– how long do they live?

A: A ferrets typical lifespan is actually two-fold:

Together with the very early altering practices of the major breeding farms in this country virtually all ferrets bred here suffer from a number of illnesses (like adrenal illness) that shortens their lifespan …

Cancers are completely normal in ferrets in this country. Ferrets in countries that do not have breeding farms and do no practice early modifying tend to live longer, healthier, lives.

Very rarely do you hear of a ferret in the US living over 10-13 years. A lucky owner can get one, with good care, up to the age of 10 years old. That’s because our pets came originally from fur farms, not from hunting stock.

While ferrets are considered the third hottest pet in America, with the popularity of bad diet and lack of exercise, they are second class citizens next to dogs and cats. And yet, ferrets, when compared to cats, are true carnivores who suffer serious ill effects from inappropriate diet and care.

I have had 12 ferrets to date. Three are still along for the ride with me. Of the 11 12 that have passed about the youngest was 2 years of age, the oldest has recently been 7-8 years old, and also I’ve lost a few at ages in the middle of that (4-6 years of age).

In the U.S.: about 6 to 8 years, with 7 to 8 years being the norm.
UK, European and also Australian ferrets: normally a 15-year life span, thanks to these ferrets having superior genetics.

Why The Different Lifespans?

How Can My Ferret Live Longer?

The book “ferret for dummies” happens to be a great place to start reading up on ferret ownership and lifespan.

I have had 20 ferrets to date. Please don’t make the mistake of getting ferrets before researching, just because you’ve had other pets it won’t prepare you for ferrets, TRUST me. 15 years of pet keeping certainly didn’t prepare me for my ferrets!

Very rarely do you hear of a ferret in the US living over 10-13 years. Together with the very early altering practices of the major breeding farms in this country virtually all ferrets bred here suffer from a number of illnesses (like adrenal illness) that shortens their lifespan …

I have two that are over nine years old. My first ferret died at age five, but only a result of a serious infection that wasn’t common. I live in the US, and yet only one of my ferrets actually have been Marshall’s.

I find the best way for ferrets to live longer is to feed a premium diet (Innova Evo, By Nature for kittens, and usual silver plus “duck soup” weekly), give them loads of exercise (free roam), and get vet care whenever it’s needed. All of mine are in peak condition and have never ever had problems with insulinoma or even adrenal.

They are typically great pets but takes a lot of work, much more than a dog or cat. Be certain that you know what you’re getting into. After that factor in the cost of brand new playthings, food, litter, vaccinations, and illness/emergency veterinarian visits for the next 7-9 years.

A lot of people say keeping a ferret alone will shorten its lifespan. The book “ferret for dummies” happens to be a great place to start reading up on ferret ownership and lifespan.by

What Does the Color of My Ferret’s Poop Mean?

Posted on April 24, 2018June 22, 2019 by admin

Ferret Poop Colors-– What Does the Color of My Ferret’s Poop Mean?

Q: My ferret has been eating Fiesta Ferret food, and has some red parts in her poop. Once in a while, she has red colored poop, but it’s not bloody and solid. Her poop has gone from dark brown to a copper color.

Raw foods can also give some very colorful poop– bloodier meats usually produce darker, almost black poop; egg yolk can cause yellowish poop; liver causes black poop; beef can cause dark brown poop, etc. An odd colored poop here and there usually isn’t a major concern.

When To Worry?

You should worry if the stools suddenly turn pitch black (could be a sign of bleeding in the upper digestive tract, a sign of digested blood), or if the poop has actually visible blood in it or if it’s green or slimy (different ferret diseases can cause that).

Diet Changes

Yellow Colored Poop
The yellow, liquidy stool is just another sign that whatever he ate passed through his system quicker than normal. Ferrets can experience gastrointestinal upset just like people do.

Rarely, if it is bleeding from her butt it will be red, she could have a prolapsed rectum, if she does you will need to soak her food in water before letting her eat it.

Dark Brown Poop
The poop usually comes out about the same color as the kibble when you feed a ferret kibble.

Red Colored Poop
Red and yellow in the poop is most likely food dye. Not to worry, would they put toxins in ferret food? Most likely not.

White Colored Poop
If his poop is white in color, it either means that his liver is not producing enough bile (indicating a liver problem) or that there is an obstruction in his bile ducts.

A sudden switch of your ferret’s diet can also cause discolored stools all the way to upset stomachs even vomiting and refusal to eat. It’s not unusual that he has a seedy poo and loose stools if you changed his diet. It can take up to 2-3 weeks for his stomach to settle.

Its normal for the poop to be black after a change in diet. Wait a week for the poop color to return to normal if you just changed her food. As long as it’s not tarry looking and just looks like regular poop, then the color is just from the food you’re feeding.

Black Colored Poop
Black, tarry poop is actually digested blood and there’s some internal bleeding going on (usually a result of stomach ulcers). If you see black, sticky, or tarry poop that smells really bad, then a vet visit is a must.

Nutritional diarrhea will go away after the food that caused it is eliminated from his diet. Dairy products does it. Some ferrets will eat cheese, and green poop happens to them.

I had been feeding mine mainly EVO (a medium brown color) and their poop came out the same color as the EVO; I then switched to Nature’s Variety Instinct Rabbit formula, which is almost black and their poop starting coming out black.

Depending on what is in the actual ingredients in the food and depending on the possible dyes used they can easily change a ferrets poop different colors. If he’s acting normal, I would NOT freak out.

On raw diets, it’s natural for ferrets to have a dark, dark brown stool (these always look closer to ‘older’ poos because there isn’t a waste of nutrients, the ferret’s body absorbs almost everything in the food. Occasionally, smaller bits of bone will be visible in the stool.

Green Colored Poop
Green poop in ferrets is most likely ECE, also known as “green slime disease.” Signs of ECE: watery bright green diarrhea (but can be other shades of yellow or green), vomiting, lethargy, and sometimes refusal to drink or eat.

For ECE: stool can be liquidy and yellow, but it is also usually ‘seedy’ or looks like it has birdseed in it. Get your ferret to the vet.

And it is a virus, so you might want to isolate him/her from the rest of your ferrets (if you have more than one), but they could already have it.

Because it is bile that gives poop its normal brownish color, this connection is made. In the absence of bile, poop is white. See a Vet if you see white poop in the litter box.

Green slime can also be nutritional diarrhea and usually occurs when the ferret has an upset stomach. It just shows that something has irritated his gut lining.

“Seedy” Poop

Seedy poop in ferrets is a sign of undigested protein. It is also a sign of food passing too quickly through his digestive track (this could be from a temporary gastrointestinal upset, from a chronic condition like IBD, or even ECE).

Generally, seedy or “birdseed” looking poo isn’t a major concern. If it is continuous then it can present a problem (because the ferret’s body is unable to absorb nutrients, so it basically starves itself).

“Grainy” poop

The “grains” are usually undigested fat and starch complexes. You might think about stopping the dry food and putting it on a diet which is easily digestible and bland if your ferret has grainy poop.

Liquid Poop

Lots of things can make the poop runny and soft, like a change in diet, excess water drinking, stress, etc

. If a ferret is constantly having soft runny poop it can lead to a prolapsed rectum so if the poop is runny for too long take a look at the ferrets anus just to make sure they are not having any discomfort (the rectum will stick out).

Bulking Up Runny Ferret Stools

You can give 2 doses a day until he gets better, then give one dose a day for a bit. After that, you can move to a couple of times a week. Since I feed them a raw diet, I don’t worry about the fiber, since their diet is devoid of it except for the pumpkin.

My oldest girl is prone to diarrhea and ulcers, and the pumpkin works wonders in stabilizing poo, along with increased bone consumption (it will firm them and also help with constipation [As get out small foreign bodies].

What I’ve found is that 1 TBS of canned PURE pumpkin (either plain or mixed with duck soup) does wonders for ferrets with sensitive stomachs.

What Should I Feed My Ferret for Healthy Poops?

I noticed that since I feed mostly Innova, my ferrets eat less often and smaller amounts AND they poop less. They’re poops are a little softer, however, which can make them harder to clean off of carpets if your ferret isn’t completely litter box trained.

My ferrets get three different types of food. soft chewy 8 in 1 (my girl loves the soft stuff) or the crunchy w/ 45% Zupreem and Innova EVO.

When choosing a food look for high protein content and your first four ingredients should contain some sort of meat.

What Does a Healthy Ferret Poop Look Like?

A healthy ferret poop should pretty much resemble a warm tootsie roll. Rolled it back and forth in your hands and made little coils out of it you would have just made your own perfect ferret poop if you took a tootsie roll. A pencil-thin poop could also indicate a blockage.

As long as it’s not tarry looking and just looks like regular poop, then the color is just from the food you’re feeding.

Q: My ferret has been eating Fiesta Ferret food, and has some red parts in her poop. Some ferrets will eat cheese, and green poop happens to them.

A healthy ferret poop should pretty much resemble a warm tootsie roll. If you took a tootsie roll, rolled it back and forth in your hands and made little coils out of it you would have just made your own perfect ferret poop.

10 Ferret Hacks on Keeping a Ferret

Posted on February 19, 2018March 29, 2018 by admin

Ferrets are strict carnivores and require meat-based protein. Marshall premium ferret diet and bandit treats combine the freshest meat ingredients with a unique low-temperature process that makes them the best ferret food and treats available.

Here’s are 10 ferret hacks on how to keeping a ferret as a pet.

What is it like to keep a ferret as a pet? There are several things you should know ferrets before keeping them as pets.

Let’s start with a few facts about ferrets. These are fun and interesting facts about ferrets that you might like to know.

1. Weasel War Dance– When ferrets are excited or feeling full of energy, they’ll perform a wild dance known as the weasel war dance. The ferret does this to expend energy and assert its dominance.

2. High maintenance– Ferrets are more high maintenance than other common household pets such as dogs and cat. Because they’re more prone to medical conditions and they need more supplies and medical care, this is.

3. Legality– Did you know that in some places, ferrets are illegal to own? Check here for a list of states where ferret ownership is not allowed.

4. Rodents– Ferrets often get confused with rodents like hamsters and the guinea pig. In fact, ferrets come from a different species known as Mustelidae.

5. Hoarders– One of the most distinctive qualities of ferrets is that they love to hoard. They might hoard a bunch of stuff in your house if you don’t keep a check on them!

6. Ferocious little animals– Ferrets are some of the most ferocious pets you can keep. Don’t worry, they’re not dangerous, but they will try to assert their dominance and even try to bite if they’re upset.

7. Handymen– Because of their agility and their shape/size, ferrets have been used to run the wire through small holes in spaces that can’t normally be reached. This made them very useful for engineering and mechanical work.

8. Objects of artistic beauty– During Medieval Europe, ferrets were a common subject of artistic paintings. Many popular painters, including Leonardo Da Vinci, drew portraits of ferrets.l

9. Domestication– Ferrets have a history of being domesticated and being used for hunting wild animals. Because of how easily they could crawl down rabbit holes, they were particularly used for hunting rabbits.

10. Lifespan– Ferrets usually have a lifespan of between 7 and 10 years. This is somewhat high for a small animal, which is why many people like ferrets as pets: because they tend to stick around for a while.

They tend to wreck things around the house when ferrets become angry or agitated. They might wildly dance, bite, or break things. That’s why it’s important to keep them satisfied and cater to their needs.

Owning a ferret, like with most other animals, can lead to an increase in your medical bills. A ferret, especially, needs a good amount of medical care. A ferret may feel the need to go to the vet, and it’s a good idea to take it there.

Do ferrets make good pets?
The bottom line is– yes, ferrets make great pets! All these qualities make them a delight for people to be around. Plus, a group of ferrets is called a business, that’s pretty awesome.

There are several things you should know ferrets before keeping them as pets. Ferocious little animals– Ferrets are some of the most ferocious pets you can keep. Maybe other first-time ferret owners have a different experience though– I’ve heard many people tell me about how hectic and strange it can be to take care of a ferret for the first time. The bottom line is– yes, ferrets make great pets! A ferret owner might find themselves at times exhausted with a ferret.

A ferret owner might find themselves at times exhausted with a ferret. For many people, this is what makes having a ferret so much fun. Whenever I wanna take some time off, one thing I love to do is take my ferret to the beach and relax!

Adorable Ferret Plush

Owning a ferret

What is owning a ferret-like?
It was an Angora ferret kit, and it was the most interesting animal I had ever seen. Maybe other first-time ferret owners have a different experience though– I’ve heard many people tell me about how hectic and strange it can be to take care of a ferret for the first time. I don’t know what it is about the cage but ferrets are confused about what to do with it.

Ferrets make good pets for anyone looking for a fun-loving and unique animal who doesn’t mind being a little high maintenance.

Ferrets are also pretty high maintenance, as mentioned before. As pets, you should expect to take them to the vet every now and then. Household ferrets are neutered so you shouldn’t expect to get too strong a smell from them.by

Ferret Potty Training

Posted on May 17, 2017March 10, 2019 by admin

ferret litter boxThe product is High Sided Litter Box. Easy to use. The product is manufactured in China.

Ferret Potty Training

Ferrets are very trainable and if you’re patient, you will find training them no more difficult than training a cat. The number one mistake most people make is assuming that ferrets are like cats and will naturally use the litter box. Ferrets are caged and separated from their mothers very early at ferret farms.

Training Methods

There are several ways you can train your ferret to use a litter box. Ferrets all have their own personalities, so what might work for one ferret will not for another.

Even blind ferrets can learn to use a litter box. If you let your ferret outside to play in the house, take a sponge or paper towel and wipe vanilla extract on the walls around the litter box. The ferret will smell the vanilla and will easily find the litter box.

Unless there’s something seriously wrong with your ferret physically, a ferret won’t go to the bathroom in the same place where he eats, plays or sleeps. If it smells like his bed, your ferret won’t leave a mess there. As long as you’ve thoroughly cleaned the spot so it no longer smells like a bathroom, the ferret should not be tempted to go back.

Get your ferret in the habit of going to the litter box first thing when he gets up. Wake him up while he is still in his hammock, and physically place him in the cage litter box. Your ferret will automatically relieve himself before venturing out of the cage, simply because it will become routine and feel natural to do so before exploring.

The “Big Bed” method. This is Plan B, to be used when the first two methods have failed to prevent your ferret from going potty where he isn’t supposed to.

If your ferret has the run of the house, you’ll want to have litter boxes in all the rooms where the ferret roams. The nicer the litter box experience is for your ferret, the fewer out-of-box experiences you’ll have to contend with.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

Take him/her to the litter box at once if you notice your ferret backing into a corner.

Gradually increase the space the ferret can roam in once your ferret is using the litter box outside of the cage.

In the cage, put in lots of blankets and towels around the box to clearly separate the bed and bathroom areas.

Add more litter boxes as necessary as a ferret likely won’t go too far in search of a box.

Keep ferret confined to cage with a litter box.

Whenever the ferret uses the litter box, make sure he/she gets lots of praise and possibly a favorite treat, to help reinforce this behavior.

Use a low walled litter box. You may also want to leave a little waste in the litter box to make it clear that it is the toilet area.

As mentioned earlier, ferrets under stress may have temporary relapses in their litter box behavior. The introduction of a new pet into the household, too much smoke in the house or the loss of a companion, can affect a ferret’s state of mind and, consequently, his bathroom behavior.

Place the ferret in the litter box before taking him out to play, and frequently take him to the litter box during play time.

Never punish your ferret for mistakes. Gently place your ferret in the litter box if caught in the act, but this must be immediate to have the greatest effect.

Observe your ferret to make sure he is using the box. Move the litter box to there if your ferret seems to prefer another area of the cage.

Once your ferret is using the litter box in the cage, let him out of cage in a limited space, under close supervision. Place a second litter box outside of the cage in this space.

Go back to the confinement or limited space with supervision stage and begin again if your ferret begins having accidents.

HELPFUL TIPS

Be flexible about the placement of litter boxes – if your ferret seems to prefer a particular place as a toilet, put a litter box there.

Be patient and consistent, and expect a few accidents as ferrets usually don’t litter train perfectly all at once. Constant supervision, while ferret is out of the cage, will be necessary during the early stages.

Place a litter box there and gradually move it out of the way if your ferret wants to use an inconvenient location.

Ferrets are caged and separated from their mothers very early at ferret farms. Ferrets all have their own personalities, so what might work for one ferret will not for another. If your ferret has the run of the house, you’ll want to have litter boxes in all the rooms where the ferret roams. Unless there’s something seriously wrong with your ferret physically, a ferret won’t go to the bathroom in the same place where he eats, plays or sleeps. Even blind ferrets can learn to use a litter box.