To Dale Miller:
 
Over the years, I have had several ferrets with enlarged spleens.  Back
in the 80s, it was common to remove enlarged spleens, however, that is
no longer the case.  Ferrets quite commonly have enlarged spleens; the
spleen can go up and down from visit to visit.  If you ferret is acting
ok, eating/drinking ok, and playing ok, then most likely the recommendation
would be to leave it alone and watch it.
 
If the ferret is lethargic, mopey, "slitty eyes," not eating, or if
the spleen is so enlarged it begins to fold over on itself, then surgery
would be the way to go.
 
I used to get excited about enlarge spleens, but not anymore.  When Elliott
went in for a check up, his spleen was enlarged;  about a month later,
it was back to normal size - no meds were given.
 
Obviously, each case is different, so it depends on your own particular
situation as to what you need to do - if anything.
 
Debbie Riccio
WNYFLFA
[Posted in FML issue 1152]