Unfortunately big business and even some small businesses first and sometimes only goal is what is profitable instead of what is best for ferrets health. Businesses have begun creating cheap products to market, regardless of the fact that many of these products are not just bad, but often horrible for ferrets (and other domestic pets for that matter).

A very important rule to remember is that just because something says “For Ferrets” does NOT mean that it is actually safe for ferrets. 

Ferrets are obligate carnivores meaning that they require a strict diet of animal protein – meat. The digestive tract and dentition of the domestic ferret is almost identical to that of their wild relatives (and ancestors) the European Polecat. Because of this ALL FERRETS should ideally be given a balanced raw meat diet.

With all this said...….

Raw diet isn't for everyone and unfortunately it isn't easy so if you are not committed please don't try. An improperly raw fed ferret can be worse off than a kibble fed one. However if you would like to try then feel free to reach out from the contact us button.

Excited to get started on your journey to ferranthood? That's great but please be aware of the many health issues that can arise in our ferrets.

What is Insulinoma in Ferrets?

If a ferret is diagnosed with Insulinoma, it means that they have tumors on their pancreas. These tumors cause an increase (too much for the body) in the secretion of insulin. This leads to very low blood sugar. If a ferret’s blood glucose (blood sugar) levels fall to extremely low levels, the ferret can experience a seizure -with prolonged low blood glucose levels leading to brain damage and death. Insulinoma in ferrets a very scary disease when it is not managed properly!

Causes of Insulinoma in Ferrets

Insulinoma, like all forms of abnormal cellular growth, occurs for unknown reasons. However it is of strong opinion that diet is the main cause. The ferret diet has gotten so far from what their ancestors ate that the little body cant handle it. Feeding your ferret as close to its ancestral diet as possible would definitely help your ferret to live a healthy and long life.

What is Adrenal Disease?

Adrenal disease is a common syndrome, usually affecting middle aged to older ferrets (three to seven years old). In the healthy ferret the adrenal gland produces a number of different hormones that control a variety of body functions from water to electrolyte balance.

In the diseased or overactive ferret adrenal gland there is typically an overproduction of sex hormones. The most common cause is hyperplasia (excessive growth) of the adrenal gland(s).

Research has shown that adrenal disease occurs as a result of neutering (spay or castration). The exact reason for this is somewhat complex but in simple terms; when the ferret is neutered it no longer produces sex hormones and consequently there is no sex hormone negative feedback to stop production of other hormones in the brain,  Almost all ferrets that are desexed get ferret adrenal disease. You might ask, “Then why are ferrets neutered?” Ferrets are neutered to make them better, friendlier pets.

The most common symptom of adrenal disease is a symmetrical hair loss, usually starting at or near the base of the tail and progressing toward the head. If left untreated, affected ferrets can look nearly bald.

Diagnosis of adrenal disease is often based on medical history and the classic signs of illness. If you suspect your ferret has this or are in need of further assistance reach out via the contact us button.