>Obviously, a lot more can be added to this list (for example, I did not
>mention obvious skeletal injuries or falls to hard surfaces).  I did the
>first dozen, you vets and other experienced ferret owners should improve
>upon it so we all can learn.  Ok, so *I* can learn.
>
>Bob C and 16 Mo' Sofa Sharks of Symptomology
 
Bob, I would have to add to this list:
 
13) Changes in behavior.  Any changes in a ferrets' behavior - a ferret
that is suddenly becomes nippy or snappish; one that seems to have trouble
navigating the household (running into objects, etc);sleeping more often;
drinking more often.  I also watch how the ferrets "present" themselves -
are the ears up, or down against the head?  Are the eyes open, bright and
alert, or are they squinty?  Is the ferret all around alert to their
surroundings, or indifferent?  Worth a trip to the vet.  Could be a simple
problem, like ear mites, or a larger problem, like blindness, deafness,
insulinoma or diabetes, just to name a few.
 
14) Discharge from the eyes and/or nose.  Can signify anything from the
minor cold or flu right up to distemper.  Yellow, mucousy discharge can
also mean damage to the eye itself.  Certainly bears watching, and
isolation - and as always, a visit to my favorite vet.
 
You thought of all the other ones that immediately came to mind..........
 
Lisa, Head Ferret
The Ferret Haven "By-the-Sea"
[Posted in FML issue 2726]