Crossroads Veterinary Services (706) 743-7614 or (706) 224-3200

Ferret Routine Care

Ferrets require routine annual care to ensure an optimal and healthy lifespan. Preventative care includes an annual physical examination, annual vaccinations, dental prophylaxis starting at 3 years of age and annually thereafter, close monitoring for any endocrine disorders and blood work as recommended by your veterinarian. The ferret vaccination program is initiated as follows:

• 6-8 weeks old: canine distemper vaccination # 1
• 10-11 weeks old: canine distemper vaccination # 2
• 12-14 weeks old: canine distemper vaccination # 3
• 12-14 weeks old: rabies vaccination
• annually thereafter: canine distemper and rabies vaccinations

If your adult ferret has no prior history of vaccination, a canine distemper booster 3-4 weeks after the initial vaccination should be performed.
In addition to routine vaccinations, ferrets that live in areas endemic for heartworms, such as the Southeast, should be placed on monthly heartworm prevention (Heartgard Feline up to 5 lbs). Heartworm testing may be performed using the dog heartworm test; however, a false negative result may occur depending on the number of heartworms present. Other diagnostic tests include chest xrays and echocardiography (heart ultrasound).

Dental prophylaxis is an important component to the well-being of your ferret. Starting at 3 years of age, we recommend annual dental cleanings to reduce the occurrence of periodontal disease. As in other species, periodontal disease can results in bacteria invading other organ systems of the animal is affected by a concurrent disease. Our dental cleanings involve well-monitored general anesthesia, tracheal intubation and a complete cleaning and polishing of the teeth.

If you have any questions about routine ferret care, please do not hesitate to contact us!