The ferrets are all shedding their sleek summer wardrobes and adding those
full, fluffy winter coats.  That means several things...
 
1. They need to be given a hairball remedy.  There are quite a few brands
out there, if your ferret doesn't like one, try another.  I've found that
Laxatone seems to be enjoyed by most.
 
2. They'll be itchier than usual.
 
3. You need to keep an eye on their stools and eating habits.  If the
stools start to look "stringy" or narrower than usual, or change color,
or the ferret drastically cuts back on food intake, it's time for a trip
to the vet.  Hairballs are a very common cause of intestinal blockages.
Sometimes they can be broken down or pushed out with unsweetened pineapple
juice or a major overdose of hair ball remedy, but if that doesn't help or
the ferret becomes completely blocked, emergency surgery will be nessecary.
 
:::::::::::kind of gross stuff next:::::::::::::
 
4. You can easily check your ferrets poop for passed hairballs (and lots
of other stuff) by turning a ziplock bag inside out, picking up the poop,
righting the bag and sealing it.  Now you can squish the contents around.
Hairballs usually are about 1-1 1/2 inches long, 1/8-1/2 inch wide, and
feel very solid.  They are a whiteish/greyish color.  If your ferret passes
one, make sure to give the hairball remedy, because it's a good chance
there's more behind it.
 
I'm not a vet, and this is not medical advice, just general ferret care
info.  Please speak to a ferret knowledgeable vet before administering
treatment to your ferret.
 
Anne
[Posted in FML issue 3197]