Supplementation and convalescent diets
Geriatric ferrets may benefit from L-carnitine , taurine , vitamin E and hawthorn for heart health ; co-enzyme Q10 to support metabolism ; milk thistle for liver support ; and chondroitin sulphate / glucosamine for joint health [ 1 ] . Empirical use of a chondroitin / glucosamine supplement has been described in a ferret with postoperative surgical elbow luxation [ 12 ] , and in a conservatively managed ferret with an atlantoaxial subluxation ( Synoquin for Cats , VetPlus ) [ 13 ] , but nutraceuticals is an area that needs more research . Omega 3 , 6 and 9 fatty acids may have benefits , based on evidence in other species .
Figure 5 . The legs of a ferret with a malformed pelvis being brought into a normal position . Photo permission from Pam Weaver , Fluffy Retreat Ferret Rescue .
Food may be altered to increase its palatability and nutrition – for example , by feeding a ‘ dook soup ’ or a geriatric ferret formula [ 1 ] . Assisted feeding of small frequent meals can also help .
Physiotherapy
Through movement , exercise and manual therapy , physiotherapy ( Figures 4 – 8 ) helps ferrets affected by injury , illness or disability , and can help reduce the risk of injury or illness in the future . Physiotherapy is also useful for certain types of chronic pain cases once a diagnosis has been achieved .
Figure 6 . A ferret with reduced strength in the right hindleg undergoing physiotherapy . Ferret oil has been put on her fur to distract her . Photo permission from Pam Weaver , Fluffy Retreat Ferret Rescue .
Massage and both passive and active range-of-motion exercises can be used on ferrets , using physiotherapy equipment designed for cats [ 14 ] . Supportive harnesses are required for both physiotherapy and hydrotherapy , and analgesia should be prescribed so the ferret does not feel pain during the session [ 7 ] .
Srugo et al . [ 15 ] described the use of physiotherapy , including passive range-of-motion exercise , assisted walking and , later , the use of an uphill treadmill , alongside medication and acupuncture , to regain mobility and neurological function in a medically managed ferret with acute L2 – L3 disc herniation .
Figure 7 . The forelimbs of a ferret being brought into a normal position . Photo permission from Pam Weaver , Fluffy Retreat Ferret Rescue .
Figure 4 . A range-of-motion exercise being carried out on a ferret . Photo permission from Pam Weaver , Fluffy Retreat Ferret Rescue .
Figure 8 . Range-of-motion exercise being carried out on the forelimb of a ferret . Photo permission from Pam Weaver , Fluffy Retreat Ferret Rescue .
34 Veterinary Nursing Journal