Dealing with gastrointestinal disease in ferrets

Abstract

Background: Ferrets have been domesticated for approximately 3000 years, yet many veterinary professionals feel unequipped to treat them. Since the 1980s, the worldwide increase in the popularity of ferrets as pets means that these curious creatures are being presented to general practice more frequently. As seen with cats and dogs, most ferret owners identify their pets as members of their family and, as such, they expect a high level of care from vets. Aim of the article: This article encourages clinicians to realise that they can apply the same clinical skills to ferrets that they use on a daily basis to diagnose and treat causes of gastrointestinal disease in dogs and cats. Several species‐specific conditions will be covered, including conditions of the oral cavity, stomach and intestine.