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The average lifespan of a ferret is six to ten years, so by the time a ferret has reached the age of five it is middle-to-old aged. While these delightful pets need proper care throughout their lives, as they get older, monitoring their health becomes even more important.

Ferrets age differently than other pets such as dogs or cats. Their behavior is not much different than when they were younger, but there are changes that can be seen. They tend to be just as curious, playful, and affectionate, but older ferrets like to sleep more, and in winter their coats may not be as full or glossy.

Many of the same diseases that affect humans, dogs, or cats can also occur in ferrets. For example, ferrets need to be vaccinated for canine distemper, but unlike dogs and cats, are susceptible to the same cold virus that make humans sick. Therefore, ferret owners with a cold should be very careful about handling their ferret so they don't pass it on to them. Diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and malignancies also occur in ferrets as they get older.

How should owners of older ferrets care for their pets?

* Monitor their eating habits for any decrease in appetite. This could be a sign of a number of problems requiring veterinary care, such as insulinoma.

* Examine their stool when emptying the litter box. A black, tarry stool may indicate gastric ulcers, while a bright green stool could be a sign of a viral infection called "epizootic catarrhal enteritis" or ECE. ECE is usually not serious in young ferrets, but can be fatal in older ones.

* Inspect their ferret's teeth and gums weekly and brush them twice a month. Pet supply stores sell cat toothbrushes that work well for ferrets, too. A special ferret toothpaste is also available. When inspecting the teeth, look for plaque buildup, signs of gum disease, such as redness or bleeding, and bad breath. Also check for chipped or broken teeth which may be causing pain. Have their teeth cleaned professionally at least once a year.

* One of the most serious health problems for older ferrets is the incidence of tumors. Insulinoma, lymphosarcoma, adrenal tumors, and mast cell tumors are all treatable if detected early. For this reason, be sure to have your ferret examined by your veterinarian at least yearly, or more often if he/she recommends. The exam should include a complete blood analysis and an x-ray.

* Keep an eye on their pet's foot pads. As ferrets age, their foot pads tend to dry out. This can be treated in the same way a person would treat their own dry hands; by applying moisturizing skin lotion.

* Continue to play and spend time with your pet. They still needs as much, or maybe even more, attention as before.

* Lastly, be prepared to say goodbye. When the time comes that your loving friend is constantly suffering, accept the hard responsibility of ending his/her discomfort by euthanasia.

Ferrets make wonderful, loving companions, but have a relatively short lifespan. This means that ferret owners, sooner or later, have to deal with aging issues and eventually the death of their beloved pet. Nevertheless, the companionship, affection, and downright amusement they provide can make it all worth while.

Learn more about this author, Jeff Casto.
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