>Thank you Dr. Karen for your input!  This particular ferret [Gypsy], had
>ultrasounds, [normal] several cbc's , even fasting, [normal], toxicolgy,
>[normal], her temperature was even normal.  She was tested and retested
>for several days.  She has been doing very well for the past four years,
>however, I was wondering if I should have her checked for Phenobarb
>levels, etc.  periodically.  My vet has not recommended anything of this
>nature.  If so, what tests should I ask my vet to do?  I've noticed that
>with dogs this is necessary.  I was also wondering if she should be fed
>or given anything to counteract any possible damaging effects of the
>Phenobarbitol.  She is being given 0.2 ML Phenobarbitol 20MG/5ML ELIXBDC
>once daily.  She is estimated to be almost six years old, and has had no
>health problems, other than a brief bout with ECE, and the epilepsy.  She
>has had no seizure activity since then.
 
I would recommend at least checking the liver function values, but I
recommend complete blood work yearly for ferrets her age, and that would
be included.  If all is okay, and her seizures are controlled on the
phenobarb, we can assume (I hate that word) that the levels are okay.  I
haven't seen any published phenobarb levels in ferrets.  Someone else may
have info here.
 
-Dr. Karen
 
DISCLAIMER:
This e-mail is provided for general informational purposes only.  It is
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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 3470]