by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2012

Adrenal disease is not an uncommon occurrence in ferrets. It can take on three separate forms.

*Hyperplasia

There is excessive growth in the adrenal gland during this stage. Although it is larger in size it can still function normally.

*Benign tumor

When adrenal disease gets to this stage the gland does not perform correctly and it begins to affect the overall health of the animal.

*Carcinoma tumor

This is the most serious phase of the disease. There is no normal function. It is cancerous and the gland may rupture.

Symptoms:

*Hair loss - the general pattern of the hair loss normally begins at the tip of the tail and travels up over the shoulders of the ferret. It goes in a symmetrical pattern.

*Muscles loss - gives the ferret a pop belly appearance

*Weight loss - dramatic and significant

*Enlarged vulva in females

*Enlarged prostate in males

*Weakness is the back legs

*Translucent skin

Treatments:

The most effective treatment for adrenal disease is surgery with a complete removal of the tumor. The ferret has two adrenal glands and different considerations may be made if one has already been removed.

It is important to note there are specific risks involved with the surgery. If the tumor is located on the right adrenal gland the surgery has a higher risk rate. The largest vein in the body of the ferret,the van cava, runs adjacent to the right adrenal gland.

If even a microscopic piece of affected tissue remains it can cause the tumor to grow on either gland.

If surgery is not a viable option because of risk of the health of the ferret there are some medical options.

*Lupron Depot injections

This medication is something the ferret will have to take for the rest of his life. Lupron is a synthetic version of gonadotropin release hormone. It works by desensitizing the pituitary gland. Then the pituitary gland does not produce the hormones that over stimulate the adrenal glands.

*Melatonin

Melatonin is a good option,but a lot of work for the pet owner. The oral medication must be given every day at a specific time (7 to 9 hours after sunrise) to mimic the natural release of hormones. It is a big commitment to meet that time constraint on a daily basis.

There are melatonin implants available that work in conjunction with the lupron shots.

The veterinarian that normally treats the ferret is the best place to begin. There may be a referral to a surgeon based on the veterinarians specific qualifications.

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