Plus-Hex CLINICAL
However , the ferret ' s owner noted a change in his usual demeanour , expressing concern about his quietness at home , where he mostly remained in bed . This may indicate mild postsurgical pain alongside the sedative effects of the administered medications .
Figure 10 . The Case 2 ferret showing facial grimacing and minimally interactive behaviour .
Improvements to the anaesthesia and analgesia protocol could include a more effective opioid rather than butorphanol . The intratesticular block could have been improved to include longer-lasting agents , such as an opioid [ 24 ] and a longer-acting local agent , and an incisional block . The meloxicam could have been given peri- or preoperatively if the patient ' s hydration and blood pressure were acceptable . Not reversing the medetomidine would ensure a calmer recovery and maintain any analgesic effect of this drug .
Case 2 ' s ferret grimace score
Orbital tightening |
2 |
Nose bulging |
2 |
Cheek bulging |
1 |
Ear changes |
1.5 |
Whisker retraction |
2 |
Score ( out of possible 10 ) |
8.5 |
Signs of acute pain in ferrets
Signs of mild pain
Mild pain or subtle signs of pain in ferrets are often missed or overlooked . These might include subtle behavioural changes , such as spending time in a different area , a different routine to their day , or a minor change in how they carry out their daily activities , such as how they groom , eat , move , sleep or play .
Figure 11 . The Case 3 ferret , 1.5 hours post castration , fairly bright and alert with a relaxed facial expression .
Case studies with signs of mild pain
Case 3
A male ferret , 1.5 hours post castration , which had received IM medetomidine , butorphanol , ketamine , intratesticular lidocaine , and postoperative meloxicam . The veterinary staff observed the patient to be fairly bright , alert and responsive ( Figure 11 ). He had a relaxed facial expression , but it was not entirely normal : his eyes were not fully open and they appeared slightly dull . The patient later displayed normal ferret behaviour , by attempting to escape ( Figure 12 ).
Figure 12 . The Case 3 ferret , demonstrating normal ferret behaviour ( escaping ); however , the owner identified that the patient was quieter than normal .
Volume 39 ( 6 ) • December 2024
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