Dana and PB,
>11 month old ferret had a hacking cough in the middle of the night
>today PB is lethargic and warm
 
Although there are several potential causes the most likely is respiratory
infection.
 
1)Respiratory infection---this is the time of the year we see ferrets with
viral resp infections.  These infections usually start out as viral
infections but can go into becterial infections.  If it is a viral infection
the ferret can fight off the infection on his/her own (without antibiotics)
and with lots of TLC as long as he/she continues to eat and drink.  If the
infection is bacterial they usually have a fever, and can sound congested,
have yellow or greenish discharge from their eyes or nose.  If your ferret
may have a bacterial infection, or if your not sure it would be best to take
him/her to your veterinarian.
 
2)Cardiomyopathy--this can be seen at any age but is most commonly seen
in ferrets that are 3 or older.  Symptoms include coughing, lethargy,
increased respirratory effort, abdominal distention.  Diagnosis is made
on a good physical exam and x-rays.
 
3)Juvinile Lymphosarcoma-- this usually presents as chronic weight loss
and eventually poor apprtite, but we can also see enlarged lymph nodes
and coughing.
 
In your case it sounds like its a resp infection.
 
Good Luck
 
Dr Weiss
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301-299-4142
[Posted in FML issue 1335]