Hello fellow fuzzy lovers.  I'm new to the list (2 months); just been
lurking.  Originally signed on to learn as much as possible about
insulinoma.  About 6 years ago, Bandit, my sweet 6 =BD year old MF female
sable crossed the rainbow bridge.  Nothing seemed to help her (meds, etc.).
Now my little Gizmo (MF female sable 4 =BD years old) has been diagnosed.
She is on prednisolone twice a day (still considering surgery) and doing
very well; even gained weight!
 
What finally prompted me to write though is my boy, Bear, (MF male sable 4
years old).  Normally a tough little guy, a few weeks ago I noticed he just
wasn't right (typical symptoms; lethargy, loss of appetite, less playful)
and some hair loss on his chest and bottom half of his tail.  This was very
gradual and at first I thought it was just seasonal shedding.  I never guess
for too long though so off to the vet we went.  Vet is pretty knowledgeable,
and thankfully, welcomes new info.  I left him overnight (I hate to do that,
but with working full time it was better for everyone).  She did a full
blood profile, fasting glucose, etc.
 
Here's where it gets confusing.  No signs of anything.  As a matter of fact,
Vet said aside from some malnutrition (due to loss of appetite) you would
think we were talking about a healthy ferret.  We discussed adrenal problems
and have forwarded some blood to U. of Tenn. (waiting for results).  Also
discussed possibly doing ultrasound.  In talking with other parents of
ferrets with adrenal problems, many didn't show signs of illness, just hair
loss.  I have read through all FAQ's and gave Vet copies.
 
Right now he's home, seems content, loves duck soup (Yippee!) (even has his
sister eating it) has gained some weight, normal poops, but is obviously
still sick.
 
QUESTIONS:
Will the ultrasound help us to determine anything?  Should I skip all of
this and go directly to exploratory surgery?  Is blood test in Tennessee a
definitive for adrenal?
 
Can anyone point us in the right direction?  Suggestions .... advice ...
anything.  Maybe there is something we haven't thought of?  Thanks for any
help.
 
I'm frustrated and feel helpless.  To make matters worse, only pooter I have
is at work.  Can't even do research from home!
 
[P.S.]
As if it wasn't long enough ... forgot to mention ... Bear seems very itchy
... skin is skaly, white flakes (like dandruff).  He eats Totally Ferret,
gets ferretone, nutrical all regularly.  Raisins and treats too!  And, of
course, at this point in time, anything else his little heart desires.
 
Thanks again for any help.
[Posted in FML issue 1941]