>...We recently had a stray dog in the house with distemper.  The dog had
>to be put down.  But then the 8 months old male started showin signs of
>illness(runny nose and ears, thick callous like growths on feet and ears,
>and #1 sign of a sick ferret he didn't want to play).  We took all to the
>vet.  The two females were given shots for distemper... Miss Kitty then
>got sick and the Vet put her on the same medication.  She died 2 week
>later.  Bubba then entered the hospital.  After 4 weeks of constant care
>and medication, he got better...
 
Had Bubba been vaccinated for Distemper?  Sure sounds like what he had -
did you run any actual distemper tests (conjunctival swabs, for example)?
Ferrets and other animals that have been vaccinated can contract a mild
form of the disease, and survive.  Ferrets that are incompletely vaccinated
or immune-compromised don't have much of a chance.
 
Hope this helps,
-Dr. Karen
 
DISCLAIMER:
This e-mail is provided for general informational purposes only.  It is in
no way intended as a replacement for a consultation with a qualified
licensed veterinarian.  If you are concerned about your pet's health, you
should seek the advice of your regular veterinarian as soon as possible.
[Posted in FML issue 3432]