To any vets on the FML:
 
I have a 6-year old female, named Minnie, who has gained about a pound in
the past 3 months (she was only 1-1/2 pounds to begin with), almost all in
her lower torso.  She also appears to be drinking more and no longer uses
her litter box, perhaps because the extra weight makes it difficult to climb
in and out of it.  She had an adrenal tumor removed when she was 2 years
old, and has otherwise been healthy.
 
My vet X-rayed her in January and again in February, and did a blood and
urine workup.  He says the X-rays do not reveal fluid, but fat.  Her left
kidney is enlarged approx.  400 percent and her heart is enlarged by approx
20 percent.  There is elevated protein and sugar in her urine, as well as an
elevated liver function test.
 
Last, but not least, the adrenal tests came back positive indicating a
probable tumor, although my vet told me he felt no significant mass.
 
My vet has been treating this condition with 3 homeopathic remedies which I
have been dispensing 3 times a day for a couple months now.  He said if he
took out the other adrenal gland the hormone maintenance would be
unmanageable.  Basically, he says she's a six year of ferret and there's not
much else he can do.
 
This is my first ferret.  She was a gift from Wendy Winsted, and I'd like to
do anything I can to keep her around.  Looking at this picture, do you see
any kind of therapy or medication which might help?
 
I appreciate your taking the time to respond.
 
--Gary Kaskel
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
tel. (h) 212-876-0090,
tel. (w) 212-366-3117
[Posted in FML issue 1496]