Ferrets - Skin Diseases

What are the most common skin problems?

The main skin diseases in ferrets are associated with parasites - fleas, mites and ticks - with bacterial skin disease and tumours such as mast cell tumours. Skin disease can occur around the muzzle and on the footpads in distemper (information on this can be found in the Ferrets –Special Diseases educational handout). Alopecia (loss of hair) occurs in persistent oestrus and in adrenal gland disease - coverage of these conditions is given in educational handouts on Ferrets - Reproductive and Hormonal disease. These conditions do show the importance of a general clinical examination in any animal with skin disease, since often the skin problem is a manifestation of a more serious generalised condition.

What causes ferrets to have an unpleasant smell?

A consideration not related to skin disease but to a normal physiological function of the skin glands is that of the characteristic odour of a ferret, particularly a male animal. Some prospective ferret owners consider this unpleasant, which is probably a good indication that ferrets are not the pet of choice for these people! Anal gland removal is sometimes suggested as an ameliorative step in such cases but while these glands produce secretions with a very strong musky odour, liberated when the animal is stressed or frightened, the general ferret odour arises from sebaceous glands widely spread over the skin. Castration (chemical or surgical) greatly reduces this odour but does not prevent it completely.

Thin dull hair coat can be associated with an inadequate diet and self excoriation can lead to skin disease in animals housed with insufficient bedding.

Flea infestation

Flea infestation is not uncommon in pet ferrets but occurs more so in working animals housed outside. Itching or pruritus is the most common sign with hair loss around the back in heavy infestations. Flea control agents prescribed for dogs and cats may be effective in ferrets but should only be used under the direction of a vet to avoid overdosage. Environmental control using sprays in the hutch/run/house should also be used. Again, advice should be sought.

Ear mites

Ear mites are common in pet ferrets with presenting signs of headshaking and ear scratching. A waxy discharge from the ears may be noted and in severe cases scratching produces self-excoriation with crusty scars visible around the ear. Mite identification is possible with microscopy of the waxy ear exudate.

Sarcoptic mange

Sarcoptic mange or scabies is seen commonly in ferrets but can affect either the feet alone or the whole body in a more generalised manner. In the localised form of the disease severe inflammation with pruritus is seen with swollen crusted paws, developing into a condition, known as in the world of the working ferret as foot-rot, where the whole foot can be lost (although this is now rarely seen). General itchiness with scabs over the whole body is much more common. 

Ticks

Ticks are commonly found on working ferrets and should be removed by twisting the tick carefully to avoid leaving mouthparts behind. Special hooks are available for this. 

Bacterial disease

Bacteria readily colonise bites and scratches gained during fights or in juvenile play. In most cases the ferret's own immune system resolves the infection but in severe cases topical or systemic antibiotics are required. Abscesses are also very common following bites.

Skin tumours

A large study of skin tumours in ferrets in 1993 showed basal cell tumours to be the most common. Mast cell tumours (also benign) are common. These may be itchy as they produce histamine. Lymphoma (malignant) may occasionally be seen.