Ferrets with Skin Problems

Ferrets are a fur bearing animal in the weasel family. When people take them into their homes as pets they need to be aware of some possible skin conditions that these animals may encounter. It is their responsibility as a pet owner to understand, examine, and properly care for these animals.

~Allergies

Many ferrets have allergies and this can cause rashes,hives and other skin reactions. Most of the time these allergies are related to the litter box, bedding, or shampoos and conditioners. These tips may help look for allergens and prevent them for causing reactions in the ferret.

*Wash all bedding with a dye free and fragrance free laundry detergent.

*Litter material should be wood free. It is best if the litter does not have added perfumes.

*Use shampoos and conditioners that are made for ferrets. If problems arise, switch brands

~Blackheads

These are most often found on the tail of the ferret. The cause is an overproduction in the ferret's body of sebum. The best treatment is an anit-sebum shampoo. This can be prescribed by the veterinarian. It is wise after using to shampoo to distract the animal with Ferratone. This will give the produce time to work without the constant scratching and licking of the animal.

~Sarcoptic mange

Sarcoptic mange is caused by the parasite Sarcoptes scabeie. Signs that the ferret may have sarcoptic manage are:

*foot rot- the paws become red, painful and swollen,eventually nails may fall out and if untreated the animal could loose the foot

*generalized - patch loss of hair, small red postulates with a yellow crust covering

There are treatments and if one ferret in the house has symptoms remove the ferret from the others. Completely clean every environment. Treat all ferrets for the illness.

~Basal cell tumors

These are the most common tumors that ferrets have. They can appear anywhere on the ferret. They look much like a wart. Normally these are benign tumors. Most veterinarians recommend the tumors be removed so the ferret does not scratch them constantly and infect the skin.

~Balding

Some natural balding occurs as the ferret sheds the fur and goes through natural processes. However if it is excessive there is another cause the ferret should be examined and cared for by a professional.

~Ringworm

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungus. Spores shed from the fungus can live up to 18 months in almost any environment. Ringworm are usually display in ferrets as a small round lesion devoid of hair. Many times these are not treated but allowed to run their course. There is always the risk if infections with scratching. Again, if one ferret has is usually all of the ferrets in the household have it.

Proper skin care is important to the overall health of the ferret. Regular examination can be done when grooming the animals and all changes should be noted, watched and reported to the veterinarian.