Ferrets are wonderfully animated and mischievous pets. Unfortunately they also suffer from a few all too common disease conditions. One of these conditions is adrenal hyperplasia. In this condition, the adrenal gland uncontrollably gives off certain hormones in excess. The hormones can cause symptoms of hair loss, itchiness, muscle weakness and a “pot-bellied” appearance. If the disease is not treated, it can lead to adrenal tumors, bone marrow suppression (anemia), urinary tract obstruction, circulatory problems for the heart, and even death.

Researchers have found that the disease is due to the early spaying and neutering that occurs in the ferret pet trade. Treatment in the past has been limited to surgically removing the affected adrenal gland. This was due to the less than effective and somewhat dangerous previous medical treatments. Recently, however, research has shown that a drug called Lupron is effective in controlling this disease. In fact it is now advocated to give a single Lupron injection in the early spring to all ferrets, no matter if they have symptoms or not, to help prevent the development of adrenal hyperplasia.

At Hecker Animal Clinic, treatment with Lupron once monthly has successfully controlled numerous cases of the disease without surgery. Our recommendations now include an annual Lupron shot in the early spring (January/ February) for neuter male and spayed female ferrets. We look forward to being able to prevent this life threatening disease now with early intervention. If you have more questions about this, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Diehl or Dr. Exline at the clinic,