Ferrets - Health

Caring for your ferrets' health

General health
How do I know if one of my ferrets is ill?
Can ferrets get obese?
Should I get my ferrets vaccinated?
What should I do if I think one of my ferrets is ill?

General health

How do I know if one of my ferrets is ill?

You should check your ferrets each day for any signs of illness. These might include the following:

Significant weight change (in either direction) over a short period
Loss of appetite
Drinking much more or less than normal
Lack of energy/sleeping more than usual
Unusual swellings
Skin conditions
Change in coat appearance
Limping
Unusual bleeding
Signs of pain, such as sensitivity to touch
Runny eyes or nose

If you see any of these signs, visit your vet straight away. There could be other signs of illness, not on this list, and any change in behaviour should alert you to the possibility of illness.

Can ferrets get obese?

Ferrets get obese if they eat too many calories and can’t exercise enough. The following advice will help ensure your ferrets don’t get obese:

Make sure your ferrets live have a large hutch and exercise area (please see section on suitable environment) with plenty of space and things to climb on and explore. This will allow them to get exercise that they need.
Don’t feed fatty or sugary foods (e.g. unhealthy human foods such as crisps, cake or chocolate).
Feed complete ferret nuggets (please see “what should I feed my ferrets”) and follow the packet guidelines on how much to feed.

If you think one of your ferrets is obese, visit your vet for advice.

Should I get my ferrets vaccinated?

Ferrets can be vaccinated against Canine Distemper (CD), a nasty viral disease which is almost always fatal. Most at risk are ferrets that spend time out in public places (e.g. those taken out for walks on a ferret lead and harness). You should speak to your vet about the risk of CD to your ferret. Your vet can then advise you on whether vaccination would be recommended.

If you are thinking of travelling abroad with your ferrets (a decision not to be taken lightly) they will need to travel under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS for short) which requires them to be vaccinated against rabies. Please visit www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel/pets/ for more information.

What should I do if I think one of my ferrets is ill?

If you are worried about the health of any of your ferrets it is always best to contact your local veterinary practice.

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