I will certainly agree with you on this point.  While of course,
prednisone should only be given when called for, ferrets (a so-called
steroid-resistant species) do quite well with it, and do not appear to
suffer the problems which humans, dogs, cats, and many other species do.
 
Regarding the ulcerogenic properties of prednisone - it has been well
documented in humans and dogs.  However, I have only seen one case of
ulcers that could be attributed to the prednisone - and that was in a
terminal lymphoma patient on 5mg/lb for palliative therapy.  It doesn't
really wear the lining down over time - that would be the Helicobacter
that so commonly affects our domestic ferrets.
 
Veterinarians today as they come out of school, are much better schooled
in the ills of overusage of prednisone than I was, and I probably overused
it earlier in my career.
 
However, I wish that someone would tell them not to withhold it in
appropriate situations in ferrets.  It can be a godsend when used
appropriately.
 
With kindest regards,
Bruce H. Williams, DVM, DACVP
 
Join the Ferret Health List at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ferret-Health-list
[Posted in FML issue 3356]