To John Rosloot: >What can anyone tell me about jaundice in ferrets? John, Jaundice in ferrets is a very serious sign. In my experience, it is not the result of liver diseas, as the emergency vet stated, but more a sign of a blood problem. If there is increased destruction of red blood cells, the released hemoglobin will be partially broken down to bilirubin, which gives a yellow color in the tissues. If the red blood cells break down faster than the liver is able to clear the bilirubin, then a yellow color results. Now, there may be a problem with the liver, but usually the liver is working fine in these animals. Make sure your vet does a complete blood count and chemistry panel. Most likely Buddy will be somewhat anemic. Most cases of hemolytic anemia severe enough to cause jaundice don't carry a good prognosis. The treatment is high dosease of steroids to try and keep the body from breaking down more cells, but a large percentage of animal's don't respond. Don't give up hope yet though. Let's get all of the information first.... Bruce Williams, DVM [Posted in FML issue 1417]