I have a 3 month old ferret, who until yesterday, I thought was in the peak
of health.  He eats well and is about 2.5 lbs, and when out of his cage
wants to play all of the time.  I would say he even borders on being
hyperactive.  Well, to use up some of that energy, I take him out on a
leash (I live in Tucson, AZ)and a few days ago, I took him up to the 9,000
ft level of a mountain behind Tucson and he had a great time, wading in a
stream and digging holes in the sides of the stream bank.  He was a mess
when we got home, so I gave him a warm bath and he cleaned up real well.
Well yesterday, he had a sneezing or a coughing fit (I couldn't tell which)
and he sneezed or caughed for a good minute and a half--I think he had a
problem getting his breathm, as he stretched out and rested after this
episode--which is unusual for him.
 
Today, I took him for a walk on the leash, and we went around the block,
when we get within 1/4 of a mile of the house, he wants to run to the house
(he knows where we live) and we ran.  After getting into the house he laid
down panting somewhat and then proceeded to have another caughing or
sneezing episode.  This one was much worse as it lasted longer and was
more intense.
 
Does anyone have any ideas what this might have been.  We have Valley Fever
here and I thought that might have been the problem, but if it were Vally
Fever, then I would expect him to do this all of the time--not just upon
exertion (I know, I had Vally Fever).  Or perhaps an allergy?  I have an
appointment with a ferret knowlegeable vet tomorrow just to hear what she
will say.  Any advice at all will be welcome.
 
Don in Tucson
[Posted in FML issue 2834]