If you have a pet ferret or you’re thinking about getting one, it’s important to find a good, trusted ferret vet in Miami, FL for your pet’s health care needs. Many vets can tend to general ferret needs, but only a specialized vet with experience in ferret health and wellness can handle the more specific requirements of these pets.
Paws and Claws Medical Center has been providing exceptional ferret care in Miami, FL and the surrounding areas for many years and we take pride in being the best ferret vet around.
Below, we’ll go through some of the types of ferret vet care we offer as well as some of the more common reasons to bring your ferret to the vet. Read on to learn more!
Most Common Ferret Pets
Some types of ferrets are more commonly found as pets than others. The differences lie in their coat colors, and there are plenty of possibilities to choose from. These ferret variants are simply different breeds, not species—just like a dog or cat might vary in its breed from the next.
Black sable and albino ferrets are the top two most common types found as pets. Other common colors of pet ferrets include champagne, chocolate, blaze, sable mitt, medium pattern, Siamese mitt, and white with dark eyes. There are other possible options available as well, so you can easily pick the color of ferret you like the best. Different ferret colors do not have notably different health needs.
Types of Ferret Vet Care
Here, we will go over some of the more common types of vet care that we offer ferret owners in the Miami area. Of course, if you ever feel unsure about your ferret’s health, don’t hesitate to bring them in to us.
Acute Illness or Injury
Ferrets need time out of their enclosures to run around and explore. Even if you supervise them while they do this (which is strongly recommended!), they still risk becoming injured in some cases. Ferret illnesses may also occur even in ferrets who never go outdoors.
Vaccinations
Ferrets are required to have certain vaccinations. Depending on where you live, local or state laws may specify different ferret vaccinations. As your ferret vet in Miami, FL, we will be able to tell you which are required and which are recommended in your area.
Dental Health
Ferrets use their teeth for almost everything, so keeping their gums and teeth healthy and clean is crucial. Ferret vets can provide cleanings, routine dental care and exams, and specialized treatments as needed for your pet ferret. We can also instruct you on cleaning your ferret’s teeth appropriately.
Grooming
Your ferret needs their claws trimmed regularly, but it may be difficult or even impossible to do this yourself at home. If so, the ferret vet will be able to help you and may provide this service as part of a regular wellness check for your pet.
Hairballs
Unlike many other types of pets, ferrets have frequent hairballs that may lead to digestive issues or a loss of appetite. If your ferret has many hairballs and you notice they are not as interested in eating as usual, you can call us for more information and assistance.
Reasons to See a Ferret Vet
As with any other pet, there are many common reasons why you should take your ferret to the vet. Below are some of the most common reasons why ferret owners should bring their pets in.
Trouble breathing: Ferrets can become sick with respiratory infections very easily, and they can even catch colds and the flu from humans. If your ferret is showing signs of trouble breathing or if you can hear them breathing in a different way than usual, take them to the vet right away for treatment.
Digestive problems: Ferrets can become very sick very quickly from digestive problems. If your ferret has been vomiting, having diarrhea, refusing to eat, or gaining or losing weight suddenly, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment as needed.
Pancreatic disease: This is a common ailment in ferrets. It usually causes lethargy as well as seizures. Despite these concerning symptoms, this type of disease can be managed with regular vet care and lifelong medication, so seeing your ferret vet regularly is especially crucial for animals with pancreatic disease.
Adrenal gland disorder: Yet another common condition in ferrets, adrenal gland disorder can cause muscle weakness, hair loss, and swelling around the genitals. It is also manageable with regular vet visits and medication, so you can work with us to take care of this problem and keep the symptoms under control.
Lymphoma: Ferrets with lymphoma have trouble breathing and may lose weight rapidly. They will also be more susceptible to contracting other illnesses, so it is important to keep them as well cared for as possible. We can help you manage your ferret’s lymphoma and choose the right option for your pet.
Quality Veterinary Care for Your Ferret
Now that you understand the basics about ferret vet care, it’s time to find a vet for your pet. Your search is over. Paws and Claws Medical Center has been your trusted ferret veterinarian in Miami, FL for many years and we take pride in offering the most exceptional care for all pet owners in South Florida.