Clint, this is still a friendly list.
 
        I'm glad to hear you brought Elmer inside.  Ferrets can stand up to
about 82 or so degrees comfortably provided there is shade and water - over that
you can start to expect trouble.  Ferrets have very poor heat dissipation
capabilities as compared to other domestic species.  Ferrets can get heat
prostration when temperatures are in the eighties.  Ferrets in heat trouble will
initially start panting, then go limp, and eventually lose touch with their
surroundings.  Body temperatures can reach 108 degrees or more, literally
cooking the internal organs and brain.  No ferret lasts  long like that. hBest
to keep Elmer inside during the summer.....
 
        As far as heartworm prevention is concerned - you need to check with
your vet.  It is not available over the counter, nor should it be.  Overdosing
is toxic, and for ferrets, it generally has to be dosed rather precisely.
 
        Fleas can be a problem.  The three largest groups of flea products are
the organophosphates, the carbamates, and the pyrethrins.  Of the three,
pyrethrins is the ONLY one that I recommend for use on ferrets.  You can also
use it on kittens or puppies.  Pyrethrins is a natural product of
chyrsanthemums, although now a lot of pyrethrin compounds are synthesized in
laboratories.  However, they are all safe, and I have not seen any problems with
their use in ferrets.
 
        Organophosphates ( the most common ingredient in flea powders), and
carbamates on the other hand, can be toxic if applied in high doses.  The signs
of organophosphate toxicity is the paralysis-like syndrome that you described
above, in addition to dilated pupils, drooling, loud stomach rumbles, etc.
Severely intoxicated animals may stop breathing, or may have long-lasting
neurologic effects.  Organophosphates, in highly potent concentrations, are the
leading component of nerve gas.  While adult dogs and cats may tolerate this
material externally for the killing of fleas, smaller animals such as ferrets
are highly susceptible to overdosage.  You may use organophosphate-based
products for your rugs and house (in moderation), but not on your ferret.
 
        If it doesn't say pyrethrin on the label, put it back.  For best
results, call your vet for instructions prior to using any flea product on your
ferret.
 
       Bruce Williams, DVM                 Department of Veterinary Pathology
       [log in to unmask]         Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
       (202) 576-2453/2454                 Washington, D.C.  20306-6000
 
[Posted in FML issue 0875]