There is a Veterinary approved formula for cats and dogs.  Yes, it is
expensive....but it is also the only such supplement that has been tested
to any extent, and the formula is pretty much quaranteed.  There is no
specific mention of ferrets, but birds are mentioned, so I would have to
think that it is okay for use in ferts......afterall, birds are extremely
sensitive to almost everything.
 
Anyway,  the breakdown on ingredients in the small animal formulation is:
 
Glucosamine HCl 99+%              250 mg
Sodium Chondroitin Sulfate 95%    200 mg
Ascorbate (Manganese Ascorbate)    33 mg
Manganese (Ascorbate)               5 mg
 
Dosage Recommendation as a Dietary Supplement
The Initial Administration Period is 6 Weeks.  Most animals should respond
within this period.  Improvement on Cosequin can range from gradual to
dramatic.  If the improvement is gradual, it may go unnoticed by the owner.
It is therefore important to keep the animal on the loading dose for at
least 6 weeks before deciding to discontinue the use of Cosequin.  If
there is gradual improvement and Cosequin is discontinued, a regression
of clinical status can occur.
 
Cosequin (Regular Strength) for Cats and Small Dogs
Initial Administration ( 6 Weeks )
Cats and Small Dogs
Under 10 lb.: 1/2 to 1 capsule daily
10-24 lb.: 2 capsules daily (1 in A.M./ 1 in P.M.)
 
Maintenance Administration ( After initial 6 week period )
Cats and dogs under 10 lb. can often have their dosage reduced to 1/2
capsule daily or 1 capsule every other day.  10 to 24 lb.  can often have
their dosage reduced to 1 capsule daily.
 
Directions for Dosing
Dosage can be increased at any time depending on the pet's needs.  If the
pet does not respond as well when dosage is decreased, then return to
previous level.  Remain on this dosage for a month, then try again to
gradually reduce.  Sometimes an every other day dosage or lowering the
dosage by 1/2 capsule rather than one capsule can be successful.  Some
pets will maintain at a lower dose during the summer months than the
winter months.  Also activity level can vary the dosage requirements.
In times of high physical demand, pets may require more Cosequin.
 
The capsules can be pulled apart and the contents sprinkled on the pet's
food.  Wet or moist food works best.  As an alternative, pets can be
pilled or the capsules administered by wrapping in a small piece of food.
Cosequin is palatable to dogs, cats and birds.
 
Cosequin, CosequinDS, and Cosequin Chewable Tablets are sold directly and
exclusively to the veterinarian.
 
Nutramax Laboratories, Inc.
2208 Lakeside Boulevard, Edgewood, MD 21040
phone: 410 776 4000 | facsimile 410 776 4009
800 925 5187 (in U.S. and Canada)
 
(c) 2001 Nutramax Laboratories, Inc. | Last modified on January 16, 2001
 
Hope this helps!!!!
Stacia
[Posted in FML issue 3318]