I am going to start my ferrets on heartworm preventative.  I know that dogs
need to be tested if they haven't been covered for a period of time, but I
am not sure about ferrets.  When I called my vet, I talked to the tech and
she said the ferrets wouldn't have to be tested.  She said cats aren't
tested because if they have heartworms already then nothing can be done.  I
haven't talked to the vet yet to confirm this.  I was under the impression
if the animal is started on the preventative and they have heartworms, then
it could be fatal.
 
I am concerned about starting my ferrets on heartworm preventative without
them being tested, especailly since one of them was kept outside(by the
previous owner.)
 
What are the guidelines for starting ferrets on the preventative?  Do they
have to be tested before starting the medication?
 
Thanks for your help,
 
Melissa Warren
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[Posted in FML issue 2681]