Manitoba ferret association

Pen light ( to be able to see wounds and foreign objects better)

Pill crusher/cutter

Rectal Thermometer ( the normal tempature for a ferret is about 102 degrees fahrenheit)

Tongue depressors (for immobilizing injured limbs)

Baby wipes (for general cleanup)

The single most important thing you will need...

A clear level head.

Stay calm! If an emergency should arise, your ferret needs you and is counting on you to focus and provide the necessary attention and care.

If your ferret is hot or has elevated temperature; keep ferret from drafts or becoming "chilled" and transport to vet. In case of injury or suspected injury - it is important to keep your ferret warm, as still as possible in a small, contained space and transport to vet immediately.

Superficial bite wounds or cuts can be treated by hydrogen peroxide followed by an application of Neosporin ointment. If the wound is deep or continues to bleed, apply pressure and transport to vet.

The foregoing is brief. The point is to be prepared BEFORE you encounter an illness or emergency. Whenever your ferret exhibits signs of illness you should promptly consult a veterinarian. If you have symptoms you are not sure about, consult your vet or another ferret care person. But, never delay.

When you acquire that energetic and playful ferret, it is hard to perceive that an illness or accident or other emergency might occur. Certainly, it is to be hoped that nothing will happen, but just as you might keep aspirin or other remedies in case of your headache or illness, it is wise to be prepared to care for a ferret illness ahead of time.

There are many causes for a ferret to become ill - from simple head cold to ingesting something that won't pass through the digestive tract, or variety of other problems.

Whenever your ferret shows signs of illness, or lethargy, or is not eating/drinking or eliminating - it is imperative to take your ferret to his/her veterinarian at once.

Because of the ferret's relatively rapid metabolism; if they are not eating or drinking water as normal - they can quickly become dehydrated. In these cases it is better not to wait, but to hydrate! Unless you can get to your vet immediately, several hours might be crucial - especially if you are not sure when your ferret stopped eating.

Also, a sick ferret can either run an elevated temperature, or show a drop in body temperature.

Accidents can happen causing injury to your ferret. Thus, be prepared ahead of time.

If your ferret is not eating or is showing signs of undue weakness and you do not know the cause, hydrate your ferret as much as possible until you can get to your vet (unless appointment is immediate). Use a mix of half Pedialyte/half Ensure (or similar) and feed orally by infant medicine dropper or syringe.

Some ferrets will readily accept this mixture when offered. It is a good idea to give a small amount several times to your ferret while it is well so they will be accustomed to it. Most ferrets quickly acquire the taste.

If your ferret does not readily accept this - you can feed by squeezing in a bit at the side of the mouth in front of the teeth. If your ferret fights, absolutely refuses this mixture or is vomiting - you must take your ferret to the vet or emergency clinic as quickly as you can.

If your ferret feels cool and is lethargic, use a heating pad on LOW setting, well covered by bedding, to help stabilize his/her temperature. You need to check frequently to make sure the heating pad does not become too hot.

Also, be careful to make sure the heating pad has no cracks, breaks or faulty wiring.