To anon concerning ear mites:
 
        The FAQ has a good section concerning ear mites.
 
        Ferrets very commonly get ear mites, so you don't need to get upset.
Check with your vet and get two products:  a ceruminolytic (such as "Oti-
Clens), which will dissolve the wax that the mites live in.  This is far
preferable thn trying to dig the wax out with Q-tips.
 
        Then get a good ear miticide from your vet (I use Tresaderm) in mine.
AFter cleaning the ears, then you can put several drops in the ears.
 
        THis routine should be repeated daily for a week, wait a week, then
treat for a second week.
 
        No, people can't get ear mites from their pets, but your cats, dogs, and
certainly your other ferrets can.
 
        Ivermectin can be used in bad cases, but it is an injectable prep that
your vet has to give.  It is not instilled into the ear.
 
       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 0937]