Young ferrets that become extremely lethargic, have difficulty walking,
difficulty breathing, and sometimes run a high temp may be exhibiting signs
of juvenile lymphosarcoma.  When these symptoms occur we run a cbc and have
x-rays taken of the chest.
 
Of course these symptoms can be indicative of other ailments but we try to
rule out the JL first.  The experience we had with JL caused rapid shallow
breathing because Mugsy had fluid around his lungs (not in his lungs).  His
lungs were being compressed because of the fluid buildup.  The abnormal
breathing was his first sign, then lethargy, then he broke with a high temp.
(Hint- temps can be taken by holding an oral thermometer under their
armpits)
 
Young ferrets that come down with colds sleep a lot but normally in our
group the cold symptoms are pronounced - stuffy nose, watery eyes, etc.  For
the cases that make the ferret very uncomfortable I give them 1 drop of
pediatric triaminic - cold formula.  This helps them to rest comfortably but
I'd recommend checking with your vet before administering any medicines.  I
also make sure they are drinking and eating well.  The more they sleep the
less they eat so I entice them to drink by giving them their favorite -
Pedialyte or Resource.  I also spritz their food with warm water to bring
out the aroma (only a small amount at the time as we don't want the wet food
to sit in the bowl and grow mold).  When feeding, I sit with them to make
sure they are eating.  Special recipes are provided as well - made
specifically to entice that particular ferret to eat.
 
Hugs to all. tle
[Posted in FML issue 2056]