Reader's Digest Version:
 
Paleface is 5 years old.  Until last summer (Jul.  95), he was in excellent
health.  In July, he developed an ulcer.  It was treated successfully
(amoxy, pepto).
 
September through December '95, he periodically had stools that appeared
"constipated" (segemented, small volume, sometimes with a mucousy coating).
This condition has gradually improved on its own.  (Vet could not diagnose.)
 
October blood tests (CBC and chem.  panel) were normal.  I noticed that he
had an enlarged spleen at this time (kind, but inexperienced, vet did not
detect it.)
 
Since last summer, Paleface has grown increasingly lethargic.  He is awake
for approximately 1 hour in the morning.  That's it.
 
Last week, Paleface had blood tests again (CBC, chem.  panel) with a new,
more experienced vet.  The vet noted his enlarged spleen.  She x-rayed him.
No tumor is visible, just a big spleen.  His heart and lungs are healthy,
although he has been "coughing" a little, especially when he wakes up.  All
blood tests, including glucose were normal, with one exception.  He had an
elevated globulin level.  She also noted that he had a low (but not anemic)
red blood cell count and that many of the red blood cells looked "chewed
up." Incidentally, the doctor also detected giardia in his stool.  She gave
me "Panacur" for the giardia; it has cleared up according to a follow-up
visit.  She also gave me a three-week prescription of "Trimeth Sulfa" in the
hopes that the elevated globulin level is due only to an infection.
 
Bottom line: If the lethargy does not diminish, she recommends removing his
spleen.
 
Question #1: What is a "normal" activity level for a healthy, five-year-old
             ferret?
Question #2:  Do you agree/disagree with this course of treatment?
 
I would especially appreciate hearing from the distinguished medical folk as
well as from other FML'rs who have had ferrets with enlarged spleens.  If
your ferret had surgery, did it improve his health, happiness, or quality of
life?  Or was it unnecessary trauma?
 
I just want to make the best decision possible.
 
Thanks,
Worried Mom Gina
and
Paleface (ZZZZ)
[Posted in FML issue 1500]