Joanne and Chaos,
It sounds like Chaos has a cataract like you suspected.  Cataracts can occur
at any age and in one or both eyes.  They are white or pearl colored and are
seen in the pupil (the center black portion of their eye).  Catarcts can
cause inflamation inside the eye and can lead to glaucoma (increased
pressure inside the eye).  Glaucoma as it progresses makes the eye buldge
and appear larger ten normal.  This is a painful condition that can cause
lethargy and headaches.  It can be tough to tell that ferrets are in pain
with glaucoma (the owners usually notice that the ferret is less active and
not as playful as he/she once was.  There are eye drops that can prevent
glaucoma under control, But if it progresses to far removal of the eye is
the only way to make the ferret more comfortable (after surgery the ferrets
are more playful and active).
 
>also considering his age should he have any special vet check ups or a CBC.
 
Yes.  I recommend yearly geriatric work up on any ferret over 3-4 yrs of age.
This includes a Chem screen, CBC, and fecal (for occult blood).  This can
help diagnose early problems before the patient gets sick and shows symptoms
(since many ferrets don't show symptoms until they are very ill).  This takes
about 10 minutes and costs $35.  The results are back the next day.
 
Dr Weiss
301-299-4142
[Posted in FML issue 1349]