Hi there,
 
I have noticed a lot of posts on ferret sneezing, sluggishness, and colds,
so I thought I would respond openly.
 
Roxana started sneezing violently right after Christmas.  I thought it would
pass, and was unable to even get out of bed since I was sick with the flu.
Feeling better the next day, I got her out of the cage and noticed her body
was warmer than normal and she was still sneezing.
 
Well, to make a long story short, I called Kelleen and she recommended I
give her Children's Benadryl (alcohol free) about 1/2 to 1 cc every 3-4
hours, depending on her weight.  I got some Children's Allergy Benadryl
(same main ingredient) and gave her between 1/2 cc and 1 cc.  Instead of
giving it to her every 3-4 hours, I gave it to her when she would wake up
and start sneezing again (about 5-6 hours).  That way, I didn't have to wake
her up and annoy her to give her medicine, better to just let her sleep as
much as possible.
 
However, since I have 3 ferrets, they seem to be passing it back and forth
between them, so the vet gave me some antibiotics to give them.
 
As far dosage, I gave Roxana between 1/2 and 1 cc because she is heavier
than the others, even though she is the youngest.  I gave Snoopy 1/2 cc
since she is the lightest (vet weighs her at 1 3/4 lbs, though she doesn't
feel that heavy).  If you are not sure of the dosage, then go with the
smallest.  Kelleen told me to give her 1/2 cc and, if she is still sneezing
after the first hour, give her another 1/2 cc.
 
Also, make sure they eat and drink LOTS of water.  I didn't have a problem
with mine, but keep an eye on them.
 
If you have any questions, let me know.  Sometimes when I type something, I
don't clarify as much as I should.
 
Dee
[Posted in FML issue 1809]