Monday, September 21, 2009

Upright and Breathing

Sorry I haven’t posted for a while. The flu hit our house and literally knocked me on my behind. Sitting up was a major chore and taking care of my fur kids a challenge because ferrets are susceptible to the flu. Not only can they catch it they can give it to you. Most people don’t know if they have a cold or the flu so it is best that you take precautions to help reduce the risk of infecting your fur child or someone else’s.
Common sense is the major player in keeping your ferrets healthy and flu free, it is still possible for them to get the flu. Wash your hands before and after handling ferrets or anything that might expose them to the virus. If you are actively sneezing, wear a mask. Yes, they are uncomfortable and get gross if you do sneeze but you will be glad that you didn’t spread those nasty little germs.
How can you tell if your ferret has the flu? Just like humans, they get all the same symptoms. Watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, and/or diarrhea are some of the symptoms. About all you can do is watch and treat them like a small child with the flu. Keep up the water and if your ferret doesn’t seem to be eating it maybe that they can’t smell the food. Put some in a microwaveable bowl with some water and warm it up. Mash and serve. Warming the food enhances the odor so it can penetrate the nostrils and the softness of the food makes it easier to eat. Kind of like the chicken soup idea for humans.
If your ferret has severe diarrhea and/or hasn’t been drinking at all call your vet to have him/her checked to be sure it isn’t turning into pneumonia. I am still not 100% but at least my fur children are healthy and happy to play as long as I can let them.
With that being said, I wouldn't look for another post for a while.

Jo

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