The common cold is the most usual cause of the illness. As with people, the symptoms are usually mild, consisting of sneezing, runny eyes and nose, and sometimes lethargy or decreased appetite. This means keeping the patient warm and well fed, and insuring that the ferret is drinking well. If the little one stops eating or drinking, this may mean the illness is more severe and warrants a veterinary exam. If you see nasal or eye discharge that is thick and mucousy instead of watery, or if the discharge is yellow or green, this may indicate a bacterial sinus infection and may require antibiotics.
Most patients respond to basic home care just like humans with a head cold.
However, avoiding cold, drafty conditions may help keep your little ones happy and healthy all winter long. Go back to the OFA Newsletter Home Page.