Ovariohysterectomy in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)

Abstract

Summary:Ferrets are induced ovulators and estrus may last up to 5-6 months resulting in estrogen-induced bone marrow suppression and severe aplastic anaemia that can result in death. Spaying non-breeding females at 6-8 months of age, prior to or during first two weeks of estrus, is recommended as a preventative measure. On 1 st of March 2010, an 8-month old domestic ferret weighing 920 g was introduced with a 5 day history of inguinal mass and request of sexing. Clinical examination revealed a 1.6 cm vulvar swelling, a characteristic of estrus in ferrets. Estrus was confirmed by vaginal exfoliative cytology. Because the ferret was housed alone and was not intended for breeding ovariohysterectomy (OHE) was recommended. OHE was performed through a ventral midline incision under general anaesthesia. No complications were observed and the vulva regressed to its normal size in 3 weeks. The objectives of this study were to highlight the importance of OHE in prevention of estrogen-induced bone marrow suppression in ferrets. Critical aspects of the surgical technique were also discussed.